Manduria and its wines

Manduria, located in the province of Taranto, in Apulia, is one of the most famous wine areas in Italy, known mainly for the production of Primitivo di Manduria DOC and Primitivo di Manduria Dolce Naturale DOCG. This region, which extends between the Ionian Sea and the Apulian hinterland, boasts a unique terroir with limestone and clay soils rich in iron, which give the wines a distinctive character and extraordinary complexity.

What is Manduria?

Manduria is one of the capitals of Apulian wine, in the heart of the Salento, a land where viticulture has ancient roots going back to Greek times. The appellation Primitivo di Manduria DOC  is a byword for excellence, one of the most appreciated Italian wines internationally, thanks to its intensity and versatility.

Characteristics of Manduria Wines

  1. Body and Intensity: The reds are rich, structured and with soft tannins.
  2. Aromatic intensity: Aromas of ripe red fruit, sweet spices and balsamic notes.
  3. Longevity: Wines able to age while keeping complexity and softness.

Places of Interest in Manduria

1. The Museum of Primitivo Wine Culture

A museum devoted to the winegrowing history and tradition of the area, with a section on Primitivo production.

2. The Historic Centre of Manduria

A charming village with baroque churches, historic palaces and evocative medieval lanes.

3. Historic Wineries

Many wineries offer guided visits and tastings, so you can discover all the nuances of Primitivo di Manduria.

Characteristics of Manduria Wines

Colour

  • Primitivo di Manduria: Deep ruby red with purple highlights, turning garnet with age.
  • Primitivo Dolce Naturale: Dark red with amber nuances in the more mature wines.
  • Rosés: Bright cherry pink.

Aromas

  • Fruity: Cherry, blackberry, plum and dried figs.
  • Spicy: Vanilla, cinnamon, cocoa and liquorice.
  • Balsamic: Notes of eucalyptus, tobacco and leather in the aged wines.

Palate

  • Soft and Enveloping: Velvety tannins and balanced acidity.
  • Sweet and Persistent: In the sweet wines, with a long, harmonious finish.
  • Rich and Structured: In the dry reds, with full body and a spicy finish.

Typical Grape Varieties of Manduria

Black Grape Varieties

  • Primitivo: The grape variety that symbolises the area, known for its early ripening and aromatic intensity.
  • Negroamaro: Used in blends to add structure and complexity.

White Grape Varieties

  • Verdeca: Fresh and aromatic, with citrus and floral notes.
  • Fiano: Mineral and savoury, ideal for elegant whites.

Why Choose a Wine from Manduria?

A wine from Manduria is a byword for intensity, tradition and passion. Perfect alongside rich dishes such as braised dishes, roasts, aged cheeses e chocolate desserts, the wines of Manduria are the height of Apulian viticulture, with a sensory profile that wins you over at the first sip.

Manduria: My personal top three

  • 1
    Stilio Primitivo di Manduria DOC 2022 2022 - Mottura Vini del Salento

    Stilio Primitivo di Manduria DOC 2022 2022 - Mottura Vini del Salento

    • Type: Red Wine
    • Region: Italy, Manduria, Apulia
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  • 2
    Fiano ‘Zìn’ 2023 - Produttori di Manduria

    Fiano ‘Zìn’ 2023 - Produttori di Manduria

    • Type: Vino Bianco
    • Region: Italy, Manduria, Apulia
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All those I have tried