Our Wines from Apulia

At the heel of Italy’s boot, between the Adriatic and Ionian seas, Apulia is one of Italy’s most dynamic wine regions. Known for its sunny, generous, and approachable reds, Apulia captivates both lovers of powerful wines and those seeking the authenticity of a southern terroir.

Terroir and Climate of Apulia

With over 100,000 hectares of vineyards, Apulia ranks among Italy’s largest wine regions. The hot, sun-drenched climate
is tempered by sea breezes, resulting in wines that are rich yet balanced. Its limestone and clay-sandy soilscontribute to a wide range of styles from dense, spicy reds to fresh, aromatic whites.

Signature Grapes and Styles

• Primitivo: the flagship grape, rich, intense, both indulgent and structured. Genetically identical to California’s Zinfandel.
• Negroamaro: often associated with the Salice Salentino appellation, it produces deep, slightly spicy wines with a smooth texture.
• Other reds: Aglianico, Susumaniello.
• Whites: Moscato di Trani, Verdeca, and Fiano crafted into fresh, aromatic wines.

Key Apulian Appellations

• Primitivo di Manduria DOC / DOCG: the crown jewel of the region concentrated and expressive.
• Puglia IGT: approachable wines perfect for discovering the
  diversity of local grapes.
• Salice Salentino DOC: the stronghold of Negroamaro.
• Castel del Monte DOCG: structured reds, often based on Aglianico.

Our Pietra Pura Selection

At Vinodelice, we’ve chosen to highlight one of the emblematic estates of Primitivo: Pietra Pura. Located in the heart of Salento, Pietra Pura expresses the generosity of
Apulia through modern, elegant cuvées:

• Pietra Pura Hyria, Primitivo 2023 (Puglia IGT) – an accessible, fruit-forward Primitivo, perfect for casual enjoyment.
• Pietra Pura Mandus, Primitivo di Manduria 2022 (DOP) –
  the classic expression of the region’s flagship appellation: rich, intense, and full of ripe fruit.
• Pietra Pura Cotis, Primitivo di Manduria 2019 (DOP) – a deeper, more concentrated wine built for aging, ideal for lovers of powerful reds.

With Pietra Pura, Primitivo reveals its full spectrum: from easy-drinking pleasure wines to the grand cuvées of Manduria.

Why Choose a Wine from Apulia?

• Sun and generosity: warm, rich, and full-bodied reds.
• Outstanding value: among the best price-to-quality ratios in Italy.
• Diversity: from everyday wines to age-worthy Primitivos.
• Authenticity: a preserved region between the sea and whitewashed villages.

Food & Wine Pairings

• Primitivo: perfect with grilled meats, roasts, or slow-cooked dishes.
• Negroamaro: ideal with pasta in tomato sauce or aged cheeses.
• White wines from Apulia: excellent with seafood and antipasti.

After this sunny journey through southern Italy, why not continue your Italian wine exploration with our full selection?

FAQ – Apulia Wines

What are the main grape varieties in Apulia?
Red wines are primarily made from Primitivo and Negroamaro,
with Aglianico and Susumaniello also present. For whites, Verdeca, Fiano, and Moscato di Trani are the key varieties.

What’s the difference between Primitivo and Zinfandel?
They are genetically identical, but Primitivo from Apulia typically shows a sunnier profile richer and spicier than California’s Zinfandel.

What are the best wines from Apulia?
The Primitivo di Manduria DOC/DOCG is the flagship appellation, while Salice Salentino (Negroamaro) also produces outstanding wines.

Are there white wines in Apulia?
Yes! Verdeca, Fiano, and Moscato di Trani yield fresh, aromatic whites.

Where can I buy Apulian wines online?
At Vinodelice, you’ll find a carefully curated selection, including the renowned Pietra Pura cuvées: a true reference for Primitivo.