Apulia

Apulia wine region: diversity between coast and hills

Introduction to the Apulia wine region

Apulia, the heel of Italy's boot, is one of the most traditional and dynamic wine-growing regions in Europe.

 The region combines thousands of years of history with modern methods and is one of the largest producers of quality wines in Italy. Characteristic of the Apulia wine region, also known as Puglia, is the enormous variety of grape varieties that thrive from the sun-kissed coasts to the hilly inland areas, with limestone-rich soils shaping the quality of the wines. The most important wine regions and locations include Martina Franca, Daunia, Valle d'Itria, Colline Joniche Tarantine, Tavoliere, Terra d'Otranto, Galatina, Lizzano, Leverano, Squinzano and Barletta, each of which is known for its special wine varieties and growing areas. Apulia's culinary diversity is reflected in the abundance of fresh vegetables, fruit and the special nature of the regional cuisine.

The vineyard area covers more than 100,000 hectares, making Apulia one of Italy's most wine-rich regions after Sicily. Apulia is also known as the land of the trulli – the typical whitewashed round houses with pointed roofs are a cultural landmark, especially in the village of Alberobello. The proximity to the Adriatic and Ionian Seas creates climatic conditions that ensure concentrated flavours and stable yields. The long history of winegrowing in Apulia dates back to the Romans and continues to shape the identity of the region today. The area is particularly famous for its red wines, which impress with their intense fruitiness, depth and expressiveness. The region offers everything: a comprehensive selection of regional specialities and an impressive diversity that makes Apulia unique.

History of viticulture in Apulia

The origins of viticulture in Apulia date back to ancient times. The Greeks brought the first vines with them, and the Romans quickly recognised the quality of the wines from southern Italy. Later, monasteries, kings and noble families shaped wine production, and even today, numerous old terraces bear witness to this long tradition. The names of many wines and regions can be traced back to historical or geographical circumstances, which underlines their origin and uniqueness. Puglia is considered one of the oldest wine-growing regions in the world.

A historic turning point was the reign of Frederick II, who promoted wine growing in the region in the Middle Ages. During this period, many vineyards were established around Castel del Monte, which still characterises a DOC zone today. The close connection between historical growing conditions and today's wine quality is particularly evident in the regional identity and characteristic features of Apulian wines.

The role of winegrowers and wine cellars

Apulian winegrowers have contributed enormously to improving quality in recent decades. Many focus on lower yields, selective harvesting and modern cellar technology. The cellar plays a central role in this, as it is here that the wines mature and are stored under optimal conditions, which contributes significantly to their quality. The wine cellars thus produce wines that combine tradition and modernity.

Wooden barrels, stainless steel tanks and, increasingly, amphorae characterise wine production. This diversity of methods allows both traditional character wines and innovative creations to be produced.

Terroirs and regions at a glance

Apulia is divided into several wine-growing regions, which differ in terms of soil, altitude and climatic conditions. Geographically, Apulia is located on the eastern side of the Italian peninsula and forms the distinctive spur of the Italian boot, which underlines the region's uniqueness on the map. The northern part around Castel del Monte offers limestone and stony soils, while sandy coastal soils dominate in Salento.

The interplay of soil, climate and grape varieties is what makes this wine region so appealing. Many of the names of the wine regions are derived from geographical features and reflect the uniqueness of the respective areas. Each region produces wines with their own distinctive character, whether it be freshness, fruitiness or spicy notes.

Climate and soil as the basis for quality

The climate in Apulia is Mediterranean, with hot summers, mild winters and plenty of sunshine. At the same time, the influence of the two coasts ensures that the grapes remain sufficiently fresh.

The soils range from calcareous structures to red clay soils and sandy coastal areas. Limestone plays a central role here, as it promotes the growth of the vines and significantly influences the character profile of the wines. This diversity of terroirs explains the wide range of wines from Apulia. While high yields are achieved in the plains, the hilly regions produce more complex wines with deep character, great ageing potential and an acidity structure influenced by the diversity of the soil.

IGT wines from Apulia – scope for creativity

In addition to the DOC zones, the IGT wine category plays an important role. This allows winemakers to experiment with international grape varieties such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon. Among the IGT wines, there are also top-quality wines that impress with their special origin, grape variety and careful processing.

The IGT wines from Apulia in particular demonstrate the region's innovative spirit. Here, modern white wines with a clear freshness are produced, as well as powerful red wines that can hold their own in international comparison.

DOC wines – quality with origin

Apulia has numerous DOC areas, each of which prescribes specific grape varieties and production methods. The most important of these are Castel del Monte, Salice Salentino, Brindisi and Primitivo di Manduria.

DOC status is directly related to the origin and quality of the wines, as the classification serves as a reference point for regional characteristics and compliance with high standards. These DOC wines are a guarantee of quality and reflect the diversity of the terroirs. While Castel del Monte is best known for Nero di Troia, Salice Salentino is synonymous with Negroamaro and Brindisi with fruity, balanced red wines.

Salice Salentino – the heart of the region

The DOC Salice Salentino is one of the best-known areas of origin in Apulia. Negroamaro dominates here, often complemented by Malvasia Nera. The wines from this area are characterised by their deep colour, complex fruit aromas and elegant structure.

Thanks to their balance, they are versatile accompaniments to food and are among the most highly regarded wines in the region. Rosé wines from Salice Salentino also have a long tradition and are enjoying growing popularity.

Wines and grape varieties from Apulia – an impressive variety

Wines from Apulia cover a broad spectrum: from fresh white wines and fragrant rosés to powerful red wines with great ageing potential. The indigenous varieties in particular give the wines their distinctive identity. In recent years, white wines from Apulia have become increasingly important, with both local varieties such as Verdeca and international grapes providing an exciting variety.

For wine lovers, this diversity is a great advantage, as they can choose between powerful Primitivos, elegant Nero di Troia or aromatic white wines made from Bombino Bianco or Chardonnay, depending on their taste. However, red wines still account for the majority of production. After maturing in wooden barrels, the wine is bottled, which is a crucial step in ensuring quality and optimal presentation.

Nero di Troia – a grape variety with character

One of Apulia's most exciting indigenous grape varieties is Nero di Troia. Its origins are shrouded in myth, and it is considered one of the oldest vines in southern Italy. Wines made from Nero di Troia are powerful, displaying intense fruit aromas of dark berries and spicy notes of tobacco and leather, while exhibiting some of the region's typical red-violet colour.

Thanks to their structure, these red wines are ideal for ageing in wooden barrels, where they develop additional depth and elegance. Nero di Troia unfolds its full potential especially in northern Apulia around Castel del Monte.

Negroamaro – Diversity from the South

Negroamaro is another important grape variety closely associated with the Apulia wine region. The name is composed of the words ‘negro’ (black) and ‘amaro’ (bitter), referring to its deep dark colour and slightly tart notes, while its balanced acidity gives the wines freshness and drinkability.

The wines are full-bodied, display aromas of cherries, plums and spices, and have a pleasant spiciness. Negroamaro is vinified both as a single variety and in cuvées with other varieties such as Primitivo or Malvasia Nera. The DOC zone of Salice Salentino in particular is considered the home of this variety. The designation of origin ‘Negroamaro di’ is often used to emphasise the regional identity and specific origin from different districts of Apulia.

Primitivo – Apulia's international ambassador

Primitivo is probably Apulia's best-known grape variety and has gained worldwide fame, not least because of its genetic relationship with the Californian Zinfandel grape. The red wines are characterised by high alcohol content, intense fruit aromas and soft tannins.

The best-known region of origin is the DOC Primitivo di Manduria. This is where red wines with concentrated fruit, notes of blackberries, raisins and chocolate are produced. Primitivo is considered the ambassador of southern Italian viticulture and enjoys great popularity on international markets.

White wines and rosés as fresh alternatives

Although red wines account for the largest share of production, the white wines from Apulia are an exciting discovery. In addition to varieties such as Bombino Bianco, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Fiano, Moscato – especially Moscato di Trani – is also one of the region's important white wine varieties and underlines the diversity of Apulian wines.

Rosé wines, often made from Negroamaro or Bombino Nero, are considered a speciality of the region. They are aromatic, juicy and perfect for the warm summer months in southern Italy.

Wine and food – the perfect harmony

Apulia's culinary tradition is as diverse as its wine landscape. Typical dishes are simple but flavourful, forming a perfect symbiosis with regional wines. The style of preparation, which focuses on fresh vegetables and regional ingredients, gives Apulian cuisine its distinctive identity.

• Primitivo goes well with hearty meat dishes such as roast lamb, beef stew or spicy sausages. It is also ideal with mature hard cheeses.
• Negroamaro accompanies tomato-based dishes such as pasta al forno or aubergine casserole. It is also a harmonious partner for pizza with hearty toppings.
• Nero di Troia shows its strengths with game dishes, grilled beef and mushroom ragouts. Its strong structure perfectly complements the intense flavours.
• Bombino Bianco and Chardonnay go well with light fish dishes, mussels or fresh vegetable salads. They provide freshness on the palate.
• Rosé wines made from Bombino Nero or Negroamaro are versatile accompaniments to antipasti, seafood or summer barbecue dishes.

This diversity makes wines from Apulia ideal partners for both Mediterranean and international cuisine.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the Apulia wine region

Which wine region does Apulia belong to?

Apulia is part of southern Italy and forms the heel of the country's boot. With its vineyards, it is one of the largest wine-growing regions in Italy.

What is the most famous wine from Apulia?

Primitivo di Manduria is particularly well known, a powerful red wine with intense fruit aromas and a high alcohol content.

What are the most famous wine-growing regions in Italy?

In addition to Apulia, the most famous regions include Tuscany, Piedmont, Veneto and Sicily. Each region produces characterful, high-quality wines.

Are there vineyards in Apulia?

Yes, Apulia has one of the largest vineyards in Italy. From the coast to the interior, vineyards dominate the landscape and are a central part of the region's identity.