Wine Experiences Apulia

More information on Apulia

Often known as the “heel” of Italy, the region of Apulia (or Puglia in Italian) offers beautiful hinterland sceneries, rich cultural heritage and white and rocky beaches with crystalline waters. Spread across its countryside, dotted with olive groves and trulli - traditional Apulian dry stone huts with conical roofs - you will find various fascinating wineries that you can visit, where you will be able to enjoy wine tastings while admiring the Apulian landscapes.

During your winery visits and wine tastings in Apulia you will hear stories of how the cultivation of vines in this region dates back to ancient times. Already during the Roman empire, Apulian wines were considered among the best in circulation. In the more recent past instead, the region’s production focused more on quantity than quality, making wine that was often destined to be blended with other wines to give them color, structure and alcohol. In recent years, more and more Apulian producers have started to devote themselves to producing high-quality wines, aware of the enormous wine potential of the region. Nowadays the region boasts 28 DOC, 4 DOGC and 6 IGT wines.

Which food to taste in Apulia?

Besides visiting Apulia’s wineries and discovering its great wines during your wine tastings, make sure to save some time to explore the local cuisine. The region offers a selection of traditional dishes that valorize the products of its territory. Some of the most iconic dishes you shouldn’t miss out on are orecchiette con cime di rapa (pasta with broccoli rabe), focaccia barese, ciceri e tria (pasta with chickpeas), tiella (a sort of savory pie with mussels, potatoes and rice), bombette (meat rolls stuffed with cheese).

Which wines to taste in Apulia?

While in Apulia, your wine tastings will surely include different types of red wines, as the region’s production is not divided equally between black and white grape varieties. The most common black grape varieties are Sangiovese, Primitivo and Montepulciano, followed by the local varieties Negro Amaro, Uva di Troia, Malvasia Nera, Aglianico and Aleatico. A few international varieties are present in the territory as well, such as Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Of course, Apulia offers a great selection of white wines as well. The most common native white grape varieties found in the region are Bombino Bianco, Malvasia Bianca, Verdeca and Bianco d’Alessano. Other famous varieties found in Apulia include Fiano, Moscato and Chardonnay.

Which is the best season to visit Apulia?

You will be able to enjoy wine tastings and visits to the wineries of Apulia throughout the year. If you’re looking to combine your wine tours with a holiday at the beach, the best period to visit Apulia is between May and September. If instead you prefer visiting the region when less crowded with tourists, spring and autumn might be the best moments for you.

What things to do in Apulia?

Apulia’s territory offers plenty of activities, ranging from wine tastings to cooking classes to hikes and boat trips. While here, we recommend not missing out on some of the region’s highlights, such as Alberobello and its trulli, Castel del Monte, the Salento, the Tremiti islands or the towns of Ostuni, Vieste and Polignano a Mare.