When people think of Italian wine, Tuscany often steals the spotlight. But after my recent trip to Apulia, Italy (also known as Puglia (pronounced “pool-ya”) to English speakers)—an absolutely breathtaking destination made possible courtesy of Gambero Rosso—I’m convinced this underrated region is the true hidden gem. Picture this: endless vineyards stretching across sun-soaked hills, each glass of wine bursting with rich, earthy flavors, and meals so fresh you’ll wonder why you ever bothered with anything else. Whether you’re a casual wine drinker or a seasoned enthusiast, Puglia’s laid-back charm will have you hooked. So grab a glass, and let’s dive into Italy’s best-kept wine secret!

A Wine Region Rooted in Tradition

Puglia is one of Italy’s oldest wine-producing regions, with grapevines that have thrived here for centuries. The history runs deep, and the moment you step into one of the local vineyards, you can feel that connection to the past. Whether it’s a family-run winery or a grand estate, the atmosphere is steeped in stories passed down through generations. I still remember walking through the vineyards at Cantine Sampietrana—surrounded by the earthy scent of ripe grapes and the salty Mediterranean breeze, I felt like I had stepped back in time.

Fun Fact: Puglia’s famous Primitivo grape is genetically identical to Zinfandel. If you’re a fan of bold, fruity reds, get ready to meet its Italian twin!

Savor the Unique Flavors of Indigenous Grapes

One of the most exciting things about Puglia is its variety of indigenous grape varieties. From the full-bodied Primitivo to the velvety Negroamaro, each wine tells a different story. These are wines you won’t find anywhere else, and they’re an absolute treat for your palate. During one of my tastings, I discovered Susumaniello, a rare local grape that offers a surprising burst of dark fruit with just the right amount of spice. It’s the kind of wine that makes you want to sit back, relax, and savor every drop.

Wine to Try: Negroamaro—its deep flavors of blackberries and spices make it a perfect pairing for a hearty Italian meal. I had it with grilled lamb, and it was pure perfection!

Scenic Vineyard Tours

The beauty of Puglia is not just in its wines but in the experience of visiting the vineyards themselves. Imagine strolling through rolling vineyards under the Mediterranean sun, with olive groves and ancient stone walls as your backdrop. Many wineries are family-owned, meaning you’ll get personal, behind-the-scenes tours, learning directly from winemakers who’ve perfected their craft over generations.

Tip: Many wineries offer guided tours where you can walk the vineyards, see the winemaking process in action, and—of course—taste the wines. Some even offer grape-stomping experiences for a bit of fun!

Puglia’s Vineyards Perfect Pairings: Wine and Food

Wine is best enjoyed with good food, and Puglia’s cuisine is just as unforgettable as its wines. Think fresh seafood straight from the Adriatic, homemade pasta like orecchiette, and rich cheeses—all of which pair beautifully with the local wines. A visit to Puglia is as much about indulging in the region’s culinary delights as it is about sipping wine.

Many wineries offer exclusive wine-pairing lunches, where three- to five-course meals are thoughtfully matched with local vintages. These meals are crafted to enhance the tasting experience and leave you with a sense of affordable indulgence.

While some Italian wine regions can be a bit pricey, Puglia offers luxury at a fraction of the cost. Many of the region’s best wineries offer tastings for just a few euros.

Pairing Highlight: Primitivo’s bold flavors make it a fantastic match for Puglian lamb dishes or a classic pizza margherita—simple, rustic, and delicious.

Authentic, Unpretentious Wine Culture

One of the best things about Puglia is that its wine culture is refreshingly laid-back and welcoming. Unlike more tourist-heavy regions, Puglia still feels undiscovered. You don’t need to be a wine connoisseur to enjoy it here—the locals are more than happy to share their passion and introduce you to their wines without any fuss. It’s all about the joy of drinking great wine in great company.

Insider’s Note: Many Puglian winemakers still follow traditional methods, with minimal intervention in the winemaking process, resulting in wines that are natural, expressive, and true to the region’s terroir.

Home to Finest vineyards and wineries, must visit

Puglia is home to some of Italy’s finest vineyards and wineries, making it an essential destination for wine lovers. With its sun-drenched landscape, rich soil, and centuries-old winemaking traditions, the region produces exceptional wines that capture the true essence of Southern Italy.

From robust Primitivos to elegant Negroamaros, Puglia’s vineyards and wineries offer a diverse array of flavors and experiences that appeal to both casual sippers and seasoned connoisseurs. Visiting these vineyards provides not only a taste of world-class wines but also an immersive journey into the heart of Italian culture, where passion and craftsmanship are poured into every bottle.

Cantine San Marzano

Cantina Due Palme

Masseria Li Veli

Castello Monaci

Cantina Sampietrana

Cantina Tenute La Spada

The best time to visit Puglia for a wine-focused trip depends on the type of experience you’re looking for, but generally, spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) are ideal. Here’s why:

1. Spring (April to June):

• Why It’s Great: The weather is mild and comfortable, with blossoming vineyards and fewer tourists, making it a peaceful time to explore the countryside. It’s perfect for vineyard walks and enjoying the beautiful landscapes, as everything is lush and green.
• Activities: Spring is a great time for vineyard tours, wine tastings, and exploring Puglia’s scenic towns. The cool temperatures make outdoor activities like biking through the vineyards more enjoyable.
• Festivals: In May, Puglia hosts several local festivals, some of which celebrate food and wine, giving you the chance to experience authentic regional traditions.

2. Early Autumn (September to October):

• Why It’s Great: This is harvest season in Puglia, which means you can see the winemaking process in action. The weather is still warm but more manageable than in the peak of summer, and there are many harvest festivals and events celebrating the grape harvest.
• Activities: You can participate in grape harvesting, visit wine festivals, and attend special events at wineries that celebrate the end of the growing season. It’s also a great time to enjoy wine tastings featuring the latest vintages.

3. Summer (July to August):

• Why It’s Less Ideal: While summer offers lots of sunshine and lively coastal towns, it’s also the peak tourist season, meaning higher prices and more crowded destinations. It’s hot, and many vineyards might reduce operations or close for short breaks, making it harder to enjoy wine tours.
• However: If you’re more interested in combining wine with beach trips and Puglia’s festive summer atmosphere, this could still be a good time. Just expect heat and plan for early morning or evening vineyard visits.

4. Winter (November to March):

• Why It’s Quieter: Winter is the off-season, meaning fewer crowds and potentially lower prices. While some wineries remain open for tastings, the weather is cooler, and the vineyard landscapes are less vibrant.
• Downside: Fewer festivals, and some wineries may close or limit tours during this time. If you’re after the full wine experience, it’s less ideal.