Wines of Puglia
The history of wine making in Puglia has ancient origins. Vines and wine, together with olive trees and olive oil, have forever been the defining characteristics of the region. In the north of the region, the grapes grown are both sangiovese and montepulciano, reflecting the close proximity to the middle part of the country. But the most widely planted grapes, and those that best reflect the region, are primitivo and negroamaro.
Because of its sunny and hot climate, the wines of Puglia are big and reflect the “cooked” juice the very ripe grapes impart. Because of their body and depth, these wines historically were shipped to northern Italy and France to beef up the thin wines of colder climes. Many of the wineries we visit while in Puglia are situated close to rail lines and the old holding tanks, with their walls stained purple and red from old vintages, are still available to see.
Recently, much more attention has been paid to making the best wines possible with these rich, full-bodied grapes. Naturally high in alcohol, the best are balanced with deep color, full body and soft black fruit aromas. It is easy to find primitivo and negroamaro wines in the US. Drunk young, we find these wines to be wonderful in the summer with dishes such as eggplant parmigiana and pizza.
There are many other grape varieties in Puglia so also look for susumaniello, nero di troia and bombino nero, which makes a lovely rosato. Happy hunting!
