Top 19 Apulian Wines

San Marzano Wines is a leading winery from Puglia, based in the town of San Marzano di San Giuseppe, at the heart of the Primitivo di Manduria area, and was founded in 1962 as a cooperative of local winegrowers. Today it brings together over a thousand growers who cultivate vineyards deeply rooted in the region’s red, iron-rich soils and Mediterranean climate. The winery is best known for elevating Primitivo di Manduria to international recognition, combining traditional grape growing with modern, carefully controlled winemaking. Its portfolio focuses on native varieties such as Primitivo, Negroamaro, Malvasia Nera and Fiano, expressed in styles that emphasize ripeness, balance and regional character. San Marzano wines are typically marked by ripe dark fruit aromas, soft tannins, warm structure and subtle spice, often enhanced through aging in oak. The flagship wines, including those made from old-vine Primitivo, highlight concentration and depth while maintaining approachability. Beyond production scale, the winery places strong emphasis on sustainability, grower cooperation and long-term vineyard preservation. Today, San Marzano stands as one of the most influential ambassadors of Apulian wine, successfully blending tradition, collective know-how and modern enology into a recognizable and consistent identity.Expand

Gianfranco Fino is a boutique winery based in Apulia, in the Manduria area of Salento, founded in 2004 with a clear focus on expressing the full potential of the region’s old-vine Primitivo and Negroamaro. From the outset, the estate has worked exclusively with very old vineyards, many between 50 and 90 years of age, cultivated in the traditional alberello system, which naturally limits yields and enhances concentration. Vineyard work is entirely manual, without irrigation or chemical herbicides, allowing the vines to respond directly to the dry, sun-drenched Mediterranean climate and calcareous soils. Gianfranco Fino’s philosophy is centered on precision rather than volume, with minimal intervention both in the vineyard and the cellar. The winery is best known for its iconic Es Primitivo di Manduria, a powerful yet balanced wine that helped redefine the international perception of Apulian reds. Fermentations rely on native yeasts, and aging takes place primarily in French oak, carefully calibrated to support structure without masking varietal character. Recognition came early, including the prestigious “Winemaker of the Year” award from Gambero Rosso, marking a turning point for the reputation of southern Italian wines. Today, Gianfranco Fino stands as a reference producer for Apulia, valued for consistency, authenticity, and a deep respect for old vines and place.Expand

Varvaglione 1921 is a family-owned winery from Apulia, southern Italy, with roots dating back to 1921, when it was founded by Cosimo Varvaglione. Today, the winery is run by the fourth generation and represents a blend of tradition, innovation, and strong regional identity. It is based near Taranto, in the heart of Salento, an area characterized by red, iron-rich soils and a warm Mediterranean climate ideal for viticulture. Varvaglione focuses primarily on native grape varieties such as Primitivo, Negroamaro, Susumaniello, Malvasia, Verdeca, Fiano, and Aglianico, while also working with a limited number of international varieties. The winery manages both estate vineyards and long-term partnerships with local growers, allowing strict control over grape quality. Its production ranges from fresh, approachable wines to more structured and age-worthy labels, with a strong emphasis on expressing the identity of Apulian terroir. Varvaglione combines traditional winemaking knowledge with modern technology and research-driven practices. Sustainability, traceability, and consistency are key elements of their production philosophy. The winery exports to numerous international markets and plays an important role in promoting Apulian wines globally. Beyond wine, Varvaglione also produces olive oil and other local products that reflect the agricultural heritage of the region.Expand

Tenuta Patruno Perniola is a family-owned estate located in the Gioia del Colle area, in the heart of Apulia’s Murgia plateau, at an altitude of approximately 350–400 meters above sea level. The vineyards are rooted in the region’s characteristic red, rocky soils (terra rossa), while significant day–night temperature variations contribute to aromatic definition and structural balance in the grapes. The estate dates back to the 19th century and today continues a long family tradition centered on native varieties, particularly Primitivo di Gioia del Colle and Verdeca. Vineyard management is based on controlled yields and manual harvesting to preserve concentration and varietal integrity. In the cellar, the approach is careful and minimally interventionist, with restrained use of oak to maintain clarity of fruit and natural structure. Their portfolio includes several interpretations of Primitivo under DOC and IGT designations, as well as Riserva bottlings that highlight the grape’s aging potential. The wines typically show ripe dark fruit, firm tannic structure, and the warmth characteristic of southern Italy, balanced by freshness derived from vineyard altitude. Verdeca offers a contrasting profile, marked by mineral notes and citrus nuances that reflect the local terroir. Beyond wine production, the estate also operates as a traditional masseria offering tastings, reinforcing the connection between wine culture and Apulia’s rural heritage.Expand

Cantina Diomede is a winery based in Canosa di Puglia, in northern Puglia, focused on expressing the identity of the Daunia territory through indigenous grape varieties. The estate draws inspiration from the ancient legend of Diomedes, linking its wines to the historical roots of viticulture in this part of southern Italy. Vineyards are planted on limestone-rich soils that favor structure, ripeness, and aromatic intensity, particularly well suited to local varieties such as Nero di Troia. Winemaking combines modern technology with respect for tradition, aiming for precision and balance rather than excess. The style of the wines emphasizes depth of fruit, controlled power, and freshness, avoiding overextraction. Cantina Diomede is especially known for its structured red wines that showcase the potential of Nero di Troia in a refined, contemporary way. Overall, the winery represents a clear, terroir-driven interpretation of northern Puglia, rooted in history but shaped by a modern enological approach.Expand

Tenute Chiaromonte is a family-run winery from southern Italy, rooted in a long tradition of viticulture and focused on expressing the authentic character of its territory through native grape varieties. The estate is particularly associated with Montepulciano, alongside white varieties such as Pecorino, cultivated on hillside vineyards with clay–limestone soils that contribute structure and freshness to the wines. The winery follows a hands-on, low-intervention approach, emphasizing careful vineyard work, selective harvesting, and respectful cellar practices to preserve varietal identity and terroir expression. Its wines are known for their balance, clarity, and expressive fruit profile, combining depth with approachability. Tenute Chiaromonte positions itself as a producer committed to authenticity and regional identity, offering wines that reflect both tradition and a modern, quality-driven vision of central Italian winemaking.Expand

Mottura is a family-owned winery based in Tuglie, in the heart of Salento, southern Apulia, with a winemaking tradition dating back to 1927. Founded by Pasquale Mottura and today run by the fourth generation, the estate represents a long continuity of local knowledge combined with modern enological practice. Its vineyards are spread across the Salento peninsula, an area defined by warm Mediterranean climate, limestone-rich soils, and strong maritime influence. The winery focuses primarily on native grape varieties such as Primitivo and Negroamaro, interpreting them through a style that balances ripeness, structure, and regional identity. Mottura combines traditional cellar spaces with contemporary technology, including careful temperature control and selective use of oak barrels and tonneaux. Vineyard management follows integrated and sustainability-oriented practices aimed at preserving soil health and long-term productivity. The wines are designed to reflect the generosity and character of Salento while maintaining clarity, balance, and consistency. Today, Mottura is recognized internationally as a representative producer of Apulian wines, rooted in heritage yet oriented toward quality-driven, modern production.Expand

Primitivo is an Italian grape variety with quite interesting origins. Research conducted in 1994 proved that the grape is identical to Californian Zinfandel, while it was later discovered that both grapes originated from an old and obscure Croatian grape Crljenak Kaštelanski. Despite the same lineage, these grapes are influenced by their terroir, and they can slightly differ in character. In Italy, Primitivo is mostly cultivated in Apulia, where it is used in the appellation Primitivo di Manduria. Primitivo is a somewhat rustic wine, dark, intense, and rich in tannins that tend to mellow with age. Young styles usually display fruity aromas of cherries, plums, and blackberries, as well as floral notes of violets. Aged varieties tend to develop nuances of cocoa, tobacco, and spices. Primitivo is best paired with meat dishes and aged cheese. It can also work well with lamb, vegetable dishes, game, and legumes. Expand

Primitivo is a red grape variety grown in Puglia but considered genetically identical to Zinfandel in California and Crljenak Kaštelanski in Croatia. In Italy, the grape is predominately used in the production of Primitivo di Manduria (DOC), and its sweet DOCG version Dolce Naturale. Dry Primitivo di Manduria wines can be enjoyed young, while the oak-aged varieties result in wines that are softer in tannins. The wines are rich, full-bodied, and high in alcohol, with flavors of dark fruits and hints of earthy leather notes. Because of its bold character, Primitivo di Manduria pairs well with roasts, grilled meat, and hearty pasta dishes.Expand

Negroamaro is a red grape variety mostly found throughout Apulia, particularly in Salento, Lecce, Tarento, Brindisi, and Foggia. It is often used together with other regional grapes such as Malvasia Nera, Susumaniello, and Primitivo, although it also has excellent potential as a varietal wine. Negroamaro has a somewhat rustic character with fruity and earthy nuances reminiscent of red and dark berries. With age, these dark-colored wines will typically develop herbaceous and spicy notes. Most examples have a medium to full body and typically high alcohol content. There are several theories regarding the origin of its name. Although it translates as black bitter, it is believed that the name developed as a fusion from Latin nigra and Greek mavros, both meaning black. The most popular appellation for Negroamaro is Salice Salentino DOC. The grape is predominantly used in the production of dry red wines, though some producers also use it for rosés and frizzante (sparkling) styles. Negroamaro-based wines pair well with local specialties, particularly with charcuterie, pasta, and meat-based dishes. They can also work well with pizza.Expand

Salice Salentino is an Italian appellation (DOC) located in the Apulia. The appellation allows the production of red, white, rosé, sparkling, and dessert wines, but red varieties remain the most common and the most important style of the entire region. These approachable, fruit-forward red wines are made with Negroamaro as the principal grape variety. The wines are available as varietal and blends, which usually include a small amount of local Malvasia Nera. They typically have soft tannins, an intense ruby red color, fruity aromas reminiscent of dark berries, and spicy nuances. In the general Rosso label, Negroamaro has to make at least 75% of the blend, while the label Negroamaro has to have a minimum of 90% of the same grape. Red Salice Salentino wines pair well with red or white meat, lamb, ragù, and aged cheese. Expand

Mostly cultivated in Campania, Fiano is an old Italian variety that has seen a significant revival since the 1980s. This low-yielding, early-ripening grape is praised for its ability to produce crisp and aromatic wines with a lot of character and herbaceous and fruity notes. These wines are typically medium-bodied and intensely flavored. Young Fiano wines often display aromatic honey notes, and as they age, they tend to develop smoky and spicy notes dominated by hazelnut. The aromas are perfectly balanced with bright acidity. Fiano is used in varietal and blends, and it can also be used in the production of sparkling and dessert wines. They can be enjoyed young, and it is generally recommended to age them for up to five years. The most important appellation for Fiano is Fiano di Avellino, which holds a DOCG status. Fiano-based wines can be enjoyed as an aperitif. They can be a good match with seafood and white meat. Apart from Campania, the grape is cultivated in Puglia (Apulia) and Sicily. Small amounts of Fiano can also be found in Australia. Expand

Hailing from Apulia, this ruby red, intense Italian wine is exclusively produced from dried Primitivo grapes—which are genetically identical to Zinfandel in California and Crljenak Kaštelanski in Croatia. The wine is characterized by a well-balanced combination of fruity and spicy notes, as well as subtle residual sweetness. Primitivo di Manduria Dolce Naturale is a great wine to be enjoyed on its own, but it also pairs naturally with dry desserts, dry fruit, nuts, and blue cheeses. Dolce Naturale was the first Apulian wine that was granted the prestigious DOCG status.Expand

Nero di Troia, also known as Uva di Troia, is an ancient Apulian grape primarily cultivated in northern Apulia. It most likely originates from the town of Troia in the province of Foggia. Although it was often overshadowed by the more popular Primitivo and Negroamaro, this late-ripening grape has shown great potential to produce well-structured, tannic wines with a distinctive character. The grape is used in varietals and blends, several regional DOC appellations, and Castel del Monte Nero di Troia Riserva DOCG. It is often combined with Primitivo, Negroamaro, or Montepulciano. Blending grapes tend to tone down the tannins, but varietal Nero di Troia can result in excellent wines. The best examples are powerful and complex, with high tannins and a medium to full body. The aroma is a combination of red and black berries, often accompanied by notes of pepper, anise, tobacco, and leather. These wines would pair well with meat sauces and roasted meat. The grape is also found in Benevento in Campania under the name Summariello. There are several theories about its origin, but they remain mainly unconfirmed. Expand

Susumaniello is an Italian red grape synonymous with Apulia. It is a rare grape and one of many offspring of Garganega. Susumaniello is mainly cultivated in Brindisi, where it is usually used in blends, together with Malvasia Nera and Negroamaro, but it also shows good varietal potential. This red-skinned grape is suitable for various styles, but it is mainly vinified into dry red wines. Most examples are soft and fruity, dominated by plum and cherry aromas. They are deeply colored, medium-bodied, and pleasantly tannic wines that can age well. With age, it can develop spicy and peppery nuances. Wines made with Susumaniello pair well with meat ragù, grilled red meat, or game. Sparkling styles go well with appetizers. The grape is used in several regional appellations, such as Brindisi DOC, Salento IGT, Squinzano DOC, Tarantino IGT, and Valle d'Itria IGT.Expand

Castel del Monte is an Italian wine region located in Apulia that has been awarded DOCG status—the highest category in Italian wine regulations—for their wines made from purple-skinned Nero di Troia grapes. Also known as Uva di Troia, this native Apulian grape tends to produce rich, full-bodied wines and for this appellation, it has to make up at least 90% of the blend, while the wine must be aged for a minimum of two years, including one year in oak. Castel del Monte wines made from Nero di Troia typically display fruity aromas of cherries, plums, and blackberries, which may develop into spicy notes of licorice, tobacco, and balsamic. They pair well with roasted, grilled, or braised meat, aged cheese, game, and rich pasta dishes. Expand

Gravina is a white wine produced in the area around the town of Gravina in Puglia, located on the Alta Murgia plateau in southern Italy, and it is regulated under the Gravina DOC, with production concentrated in an inland zone marked by limestone soils and higher elevation compared to most of the region. Viticulture in this area developed within a rural landscape shaped by transhumance, grain cultivation, and sparse settlement, where grape growing persisted on rocky ground unsuitable for other crops and gradually gained recognition for white wines based on local varieties that responded well to cooler nights and wide diurnal temperature shifts. Gravina wine is produced primarily from Greco, often supported by smaller amounts of Malvasia Bianca or Bianco d’Alessano depending on the producer, with grapes harvested to retain acidity, gently pressed, and fermented at controlled temperatures, most commonly in stainless steel, to preserve clarity and structure rather than weight or oak-derived character. A defining feature of Gravina is the expression of a white wine style shaped by altitude and calcareous soils in a region better known for powerful reds, resulting in wines that emphasize firmness, restraint, and longevity rather than immediate softness. It is served chilled and consumed mainly with meals in homes and restaurants across inland Puglia and neighboring regions, where it pairs well with vegetables, legumes, fresh cheeses, grilled fish, shellfish, and olive-oil-based dishes, functioning as a food-oriented white wine suited to everyday dining rather than standalone consumption.Expand