OUR GRAPE VARIETIES
The essence of
our Territory
Negroamaro
The Negroamaro vine is one of the most significant and representative varieties of Salento and, in particular of the San Pancrazio Salentino countryside also giving rise to the Doc Salice Salentino in combination with Malvasia Nera. The name originates from the words “negro” and “amaro,” which mean black and bitter and reflect the dark, dry color of the wine from Negroamaro grapes. It has a medium to large dark green leaf size, a fairly compact cluster also medium in size and spheroid-shaped berries with thick black-purple skin. Enologically it lends itself to be vinified in rosé, red but also in white and also to obtain excellent bubbles. The wines range in color from ruby red to garnet with barrel-aged wines while in the mouth they are very full-bodied with soft tannins.
Primitivo
Primitivo, a symbol of Apulian viticulture, is known for its early ripening (from Latin primativus) and unique characteristics. The clusters have medium size and a thin, dark blue skin, which requires special attention during growth to avoid damage from autumn rains. On the other hand, the thin skin facilitates natural grape drying, favored by the dry and sunny autumn climate, allowing slight overripeness. This traditional practice results in complex, deep wines. Primitivo has a deep ruby color that evolves toward garnet with age. The nose has aromas of red fruits such as black cherry and plums, with floral notes of violets and spices such as cinnamon and black pepper from aging in wood. The palate is warm and enveloping, with delicate tannins and good persistence, fully expressing the characteristics of the Apulian terroir.
Susumaniello
Susumaniello is a very old grape variety whose name comes from the dialect “somarello” to indicate its high productivity in the early years of production, after a long period of decline has been rediscovered in recent years appreciating the particular characteristics vinified in both pink and red. The plant presents itself with a medium-sized leaf, a compact, conical bouquet and a spheroid-shaped berry, the wines have a red color ranging from ruby to full-bodied purple and lend themselves well to aging, making it one of the most promising grape varieties in Puglia oenology.
Chardonnay
Chardonnay, a grape variety that originated in Burgundy, France, but is widely grown throughout the world, has been cultivated in Salento for years, representing one of the most interesting expressions of this international grape variety in the Italian context. The warm and sunny but also very windy climate, combined with calcareous and clay soils and long summers and mild winters have created an ideal environment for the cultivation of Chardonnay. Chardonnay grown in Salento tends to have a rich and complex flavor profile, often characterized by notes of tropical fruits such as pineapple, mango and banana, accompanied by hints of citrus, apple and sometimes notes of white flowers. Because of its versatility, Salento Chardonnay pairs well with a wide range of dishes. The fresher, younger versions are ideal with fish dishes, seafood and salads, while the more structured, wood-aged versions go well with richer dishes such as white meats, pasta with creamy sauces and soft cheeses.