The Most Popular Wines of Puglia

Puglia,

located in southern Italy, is renowned for its wine production. The region is known for a variety of grape varieties, producing both red and white wines. Here are some popular wine varieties you can find in Puglia:

Primitivo

Primitivo is one of Puglia’s most famous red wine grape varieties. It produces rich, full-bodied wines with high alcohol content and flavors of dark fruits, spices, and chocolate.

Primitivo is often compared to California’s Zinfandel due to their genetic similarities.
Negroamaro: Negroamaro is another prominent red grape variety in Puglia. It yields robust, deeply colored wines with flavors of blackberries, plums, and spices.

Negroamaro

Negroamaro is another prominent red grape variety in Puglia. It yields robust, deeply colored wines with flavors of blackberries, plums, and spices. Negroamaro wines often have a velvety texture and can be aged to develop additional complexity.

Photo by CHUTTERSNAP

Aglianico:

While Aglianico is primarily associated with the southern region of Basilicata, it is also grown in Puglia. This red grape variety produces structured, tannic wines with intense flavors of dark fruits, tobacco, and earth. Aglianico wines can benefit from aging.

Primitivo di Manduria:

Primitivo di Manduria is a specific appellation within Puglia that focuses on producing high-quality Primitivo wines. Wines labeled as Primitivo di Manduria often exhibit concentrated flavors, higher alcohol content, and a velvety texture.

Fiano:

Fiano is a notable white grape variety grown in Puglia. It produces aromatic white wines with flavors of tropical fruits, citrus, and floral notes. Fiano wines are known for their crisp acidity and can be enjoyed both young and with some aging.

Verdeca:

Verdeca is another white grape variety found in Puglia, particularly in the Valle d’Itria area. Wines made from Verdeca grapes offer fresh, lively flavors with hints of citrus, green apple, and herbs. They are often enjoyed as a refreshing aperitif.

Bombino Bianco:

Bombino Bianco is a widely cultivated white grape in Puglia. It produces light, crisp wines with delicate floral aromas and flavors of pear, apple, and citrus. Bombino Bianco wines are often consumed young and make a great choice for warm summer days.

These are just a few examples of the popular wine varieties you can find in Puglia. The region’s diverse terroir and grape cultivation contribute to a wide range of wines with unique characteristics and flavors. Exploring local wineries and trying different wines is an excellent way to experience the rich wine culture of Puglia.