Puglia

Although the region of Puglia (better known as Apulia in English) is most well-known for its contribution to the country’s olives, the region has a long winemaking tradition.

Unlike many regions in Southern Italy, Puglia has every necessary natural influence to ensure that grapes flourish here. Rich soils, warm weather and diverse landscapes have helped shape the wines of Puglia into what they are today.

Although Puglia is famously known for being a key region for the country’s olive supply, it has formed a reputation for producing spectacular red wines. The success of these red wines stems largely from the Mediterranean climate, as well as the iron-rich soils of the region.

Where in Italy is Puglia situated?

When looking at the map of Italy, many consider the shape of Italy to be in the shape of a boot. Puglia is famously known to form the heel of this boot, as well as a large section of the calf-area.

Considering the region runs along the coastline, there is a major influence from the ocean breezes, which allows for a great cooling effect on the vines. This is vital for the grapes to retain enough acidity and for the grapes to not become overripe and jammy.

What kind of wine is produced in Puglia?

Puglia is best known for producing rich and concentrated red wines, but you will find refreshing whites as well.

The two grape varieties that truly put Puglia on the map as a wine region, are Negroamaro and Primitivo.

Salice Salentino is a region in Puglia, which uses the Negroamaro grape to produce ripe red wines. These wines often display fresh fruit aromas like blackberries and plums but also have spicy notes of cinnamon and allspice.

Primitivo, known as Zinfandel in the New World, produces full-bodied reds with very distinct leather aromas. These wines are renowned for its fruit-driven, high alcohol and full-bodied traits.

Which food pairs best with Puglia wines?

Puglian wines pair best with southern Italian food.

When it comes to food and wine pairing, it is always best to seek out the regional food and wine pairing. Whether it is with wine from Burgundy or Tuscany, nothing pairs with a wine like that particular region’s food.

In the case of Puglia, you will find that the region’s cuisine often focuses on the vegetable element of a dish. Fresh flavours of tomato and olives are very much present in most dishes. You will also find that grilled vegetables are almost always present in the pasta and stews. So, when looking to find a dish to pair with a Puglian wine, opt for a Puglian regional dish. Anything that has intense tomato, olive and grilled vegetables pair incredibly well with Negroamaro. Primitivo, however, would need a boost of flavor and depth, so a meat-focused stew or pasta would do the trick.