Located on the heel of the Italian boot, the Puglia region is one of the main wine regions of Italy, ahead of Sicily and Veneto in production. Long nicknamed "the cellar of Italy" and even "the cellar of Europe", the region of Puglia has undergone a major viticultural restructuring with the aim of reducing the quantity of the wines produced in favour of a truly qualitative, terroir-driven approach. Today, the wines of Puglia are enjoying a moment in the spotlight, internationally recognised thanks to the work of the region’s winegrowers, who have worked tirelessly for the recognition of their wines.
Extending over a vast area of 114,000 hectares, of which 84,000 hectares are dedicated to wine production, the Puglia region is today home to 28 DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) appellations and 4 DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) appellations: the DOCG Castel del Monte Bombino Nero, Castel del Monte Nero di Troia Riserva, Castel del Monte Rosso Riserva and Primitivo di Manduria Dolce Naturale.
The region enjoys a Mediterranean climate, and can be divided into two sub-regions, separated between the Brindisi and Taranto. To the north, the hills mark an area characterised by a temperate or even cool climate on the heights of the Murge plateau. To the south, we find the region of Salento whose climate is influenced by the nearby sea, which moderates the sweltering heat of the summer. It is in this region that the Negroamaro grape reveals itself to the fullest. Producing wines of great character, with aromas of stewed red and black fruits and gourmet, juicy tannins, these wines also reveal a slight bitterness in the mouth. Negroamaro is one of the emblematic grape varieties of the region. Along with this variety, Primitivo, Nero di Troia, Aglianico and even the rare Susumaniello grape varieties can also be found in the Puglia region, producing wines with a unique identity.
Driven by the passion of winegrowers dedicated to their terroir, the Puglia region is become more and more famous for its wines - white, red and rosé. This region, though still not very well known, offers plenty of exceptional producers to discover.
