1. Primitivo di Manduria

One of the most iconic wines from Puglia is undoubtedly Primitivo di Manduria. This powerful red wine comes from the Primitivo grape, a variety genetically related to the American Zinfandel. The wine is known for its intense flavors of ripe cherries, plums, licorice, and spices.

Characteristics: Full-bodied, powerful, with high alcohol content and a robust structure.

Flavor profile: Ripe red and black fruits, sweet spices, and chocolate.

Serving suggestion: Pair Primitivo di Manduria with grilled red meat, rich stews, or aged cheeses.

2. Negroamaro

The Negroamaro grape is another major name from Puglia. This grape, primarily grown in the Salento area, is known for its deep, dark color and slightly bitter finish, which is where its name comes from (‘negro’ means black and ‘amaro’ means bitter).

Characteristics: Full-bodied, with a good balance between acidity and tannins.

Flavor profile: Dark berries, herbs, with hints of tobacco and leather.

Serving suggestion: Negroamaro pairs perfectly with game dishes, stews, and meals featuring truffle or mushrooms.

3. Salice Salentino

A blend of Negroamaro and sometimes Malvasia Nera, Salice Salentino is one of the most renowned red wines from Puglia. Named after the town of the same name in Salento, this wine is known for its soft, velvety texture and spicy flavor.

Characteristics: Velvety tannins, medium body, refined finish.

Flavor profile: Ripe cherries, plums, spices, with a hint of chocolate.

Serving suggestion: Salice Salentino pairs excellently with pasta in meat sauce, roasted lamb, or hard cheeses.

4. Fiano Minutolo

Although Puglia is primarily known for its red wines, the region also produces surprisingly good white wines, such as Fiano Minutolo. This white grape is mainly grown in northern Puglia and produces aromatic, fresh wines.

Characteristics: Fresh, aromatic, with a light minerality.

Flavor profile: Tropical fruit, citrus, flowers, and herbs.

Serving suggestion: Fiano Minutolo is an ideal wine for light summer dishes, salads, seafood, or as an aperitif.

5. Bombino Bianco

The Bombino Bianco is a versatile white grape, mainly grown in the northern regions of Puglia. This wine is often refreshing and light, perfect for hot summer days.

Characteristics: Light and fresh, with soft acidity.

Flavor profile: Apple, pear, citrus, and light floral notes.

Serving suggestion: Bombino Bianco pairs well with light fish dishes, salads, or antipasti.

6. Nero di Troia

Also known as Uva di Troia, this grape is one of the oldest and most noble varieties of Puglia. Wines made from Nero di Troia are generally elegant and structured, with complex aromas and pleasant tannins.

Characteristics: Elegant, complex, with a good tannin structure.

Flavor profile: Red and black berries, spices, violets, and leather.

Serving suggestion: Nero di Troia pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, stews, or aged cheeses.

7. Rosato di Puglia

Puglia is also known for its Rosato, or rosé wine. These wines are usually made from Negroamaro or Primitivo grapes and are perfect for warm days due to their fresh, fruity character.

Characteristics: Light and fresh, with a pronounced fruitiness.

Flavor profile: Red berries, flowers, sometimes a hint of citrus.

Serving suggestion: Ideal as a summer wine, it pairs well with light dishes, seafood, or even pizza.

Puglia’s wine terroir: a world of diversity

What makes Puglia unique is its varied terroir. The region has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. The proximity to the sea brings cooling breezes, essential for maintaining freshness in the grapes. The soil ranges from clay and limestone to sandy soils, which adds complexity to the wines.

Many of the vines are also old, with some vineyards dating back over a hundred years. These old vines produce fewer grapes, but the quality of the wine is exceptionally high due to the concentrated flavors.

Puglia’s wines are worth discovering

The wines of Puglia are a true discovery for any wine lover. Whether you prefer full-bodied, powerful reds like Primitivo di Manduria, or lighter, aromatic whites like Fiano Minutolo, there is something for everyone. The combination of ancient winemaking traditions, modern techniques, and the unique terroir makes Puglia one of Italy’s most exciting wine regions.

It is certainly worth exploring these wines and allowing yourself to be surprised by the flavors of this beautiful southern wine region. Salute! And while you're discovering the delights of Puglia, why not stay in one of our charming accommodations?