Author: ApuliaTrip

In the authentic heart of Puglia, surrounded by ancient olive groves and gentle karst hills, lies Tenute Chiaromonte, a winery that tells the deepest story of the territory of Acquaviva delle Fonti.

Located within the Gioia del Colle DOC area, this winery stands out for its strong connection to the land, where the winds from the two seas and the significant temperature variations shape wines with extraordinary personality.

The history

The history of Tenute Chiaromonte is deeply intertwined with the family that has guided it for nearly two centuries.

Founded in 1826, the winery began as a small family-run farm dedicated to olive groves, cherry orchards, and vineyards. Over time, agricultural knowledge was passed down “from father to son,” eventually reaching Nicola Chiaromonte, the current owner, who in 1998 chose to begin a path of renewal focused on organic farming, research, and the enhancement of the local territory.

Today, the estate includes more than 60 hectares cultivated using organic methods, with extraordinary attention to quality, experimentation, and the preservation of native grape varieties.

The winery’s philosophy is built on a delicate balance between respect for tradition and continuous innovation. Every vineyard is cultivated according to the specific characteristics of its soil and microclimate because, as the winery’s vision suggests, every “piece of land” is unique and impossible to replicate.

The kingdom of Primitivo and iconic labels

The true heart of production at Tenute Chiaromonte is undoubtedly Primitivo di Gioia del Colle, interpreted in a pure and elegant style that highlights freshness and territorial identity.

Some of the vineyards are over 100 years old and grow on mineral-rich limestone soils, giving the wines both structure and impressive aging potential.

Among the winery’s most representative labels are:

• Muro Sant’Angelo and Muro Sant’Angelo Contrada Barbatto, intense and refined expressions of Primitivo
• Elè Primitivo IGT, perfectly balancing power and drinkability
• Nigredo, a lightly sweet wine inspired by local tradition
• Kimìa, also produced in a Fiano version, showcasing the winery’s dedication to native varieties

Alongside its reds, the winery also produces whites, rosés, and ancestral-method sparkling wines, all born from continuous research and intentionally limited production aimed at maintaining the highest quality standards.

Winery Experiences: living the Apulian Wine Tradition

Visiting Tenute Chiaromonte means much more than simply tasting wine — it’s a truly immersive journey into the heart of Puglian tradition.

The winery’s wine tours are designed as engaging experiences filled with stories, vineyard walks, and guided discoveries led by qualified sommeliers.

The experiences are organized into several themed tours, but they all share one central element: the tasting of four representative labels, including outstanding expressions of Primitivo such as Muro Sant’Angelo, alongside more experimental productions like the winery’s ancestral-method sparkling wine.

Everything is paired with the estate’s own organic extra virgin olive oil and a selection of traditional Puglian products, creating the perfect harmony between wine and local gastronomy.

The tours last approximately 2 hours, allowing visitors to enjoy the experience slowly and fully, surrounded by vineyards, cellars, and peaceful countryside views. The result is not just a wine tasting, but a true journey through flavors, history, and the land itself — where every glass becomes an expression of the territory from which it was born.

In the heart of the most authentic Salento, among stretches of red soil and vineyards shaped by the wind, stands Schola Sarmenti, a winery that captures the deepest soul of Apulian winemaking tradition.

Located just a short distance from the historic center of Nardò, this estate is an essential stop for travelers who want to discover the most elegant and authentic side of Salento wine culture.

History, tradition, and identity

Founded in 1999 by the Marra and Calabrese families, the winery was created through the restoration of an old 19th-century wine facility, carefully preserved to maintain its original character and atmosphere.

Even today, the spaces still tell the story of the past: star-vaulted ceilings made of Lecce stone, ancient cisterns transformed into underground barrel cellars, and rooms that evoke old winemaking rituals deeply connected to local tradition.

Here, time seems to slow down, leaving room for gestures passed down through generations, where hand-harvesting and artisanal care remain essential parts of the production process.

Winemaking and signature labels

At the heart of the winery’s production are the native grape varieties of Salento: Negroamaro, Primitivo, Fiano, and Susumaniello, alongside other carefully selected varieties.

Some of the vineyards are more than 80 years old and produce wines that are intense, complex, and full of personality, characterized by deep aromas and remarkable structure.

Among the winery’s most representative labels are territorial expressions such as Primitivo and Nardò Rosso, alongside more refined interpretations known for their balance, structure, and aging potential.

The production philosophy combines tradition and innovation: ancient winemaking methods coexist with modern technology to enhance every grape at its best.

Wine experiences and tastings

If there is one reason why Schola Sarmenti leaves such a strong impression on visitors, it is undoubtedly the wine tourism experience, carefully designed to engage all the senses.

The winery offers several wine tours, each with its own distinct identity:

• Tre Rami: a tasting paired with simple traditional products such as taralli and local Leccino olives;
• Quattro Foglie: an enhanced experience accompanied by a small Apulian aperitivo;
• Cinque Acini: a more complete experience featuring a richer selection of traditional local food pairings.

Each tasting begins with a guided tour of the winery, where visitors discover every stage of the winemaking process, from grape arrival to aging in wooden barrels and steel tanks.

The atmosphere is especially evocative: underground rooms, the scent of wine in the air, and a silence interrupted only by the stories shared by the guides.

Beyond the cellar visit, guests can also enjoy outdoor experiences such as walks through the vineyards of Salento. Here, visitors can closely observe both young vines and historic plants — some over 80 years old — gaining a true understanding of the connection between the land and the final wine.

The tastings are undoubtedly the emotional highlight of the experience: not simply a wine tasting, but a true journey through the aromas, flavors, and traditions of the territory.

Schola Sarmenti is far more than just a winery — it is an emotional journey into the heart of Salento, where wine becomes language, memory, and discovery.

It is the perfect destination for travelers seeking an authentic experience that combines culture, landscape, and food and wine traditions in one unforgettable visit.

In the heart of northern Salento, just a few kilometers from the Ionian Sea, stands Cantine San Pancrazio, a winery surrounded by vineyards, intense southern light, and the characteristic red soil of Puglia.

Here, among the territories of San Pancrazio Salentino, San Donaci, Guagnano, and Salice Salentino, visitors can experience an authentic wine journey where the connection to the land is clear from the very first moment.

It is a destination that attracts not only wine lovers, but also travelers looking for genuine traditions and authentic experiences away from the most crowded tourist routes.

A story of cooperation and passion

The story of the winery began in 1961, when Cavalier Antonio Bianco, together with 13 local farmers, founded the “Cooperativa Produttori Agricoli.“

The project was born from a deep love for the land and the desire to give value to agricultural work. Over the years, it has grown into a solid and respected reality. Today, the cooperative includes around 400 members and more than 500 hectares of vineyards, most of them located within the prestigious Salice Salentino DOC area.

It is a journey built step by step, where tradition and innovation coexist naturally: on one side, the farming knowledge passed down through generations; on the other, modern winemaking techniques capable of enhancing every nuance of the territory.

Wines and grape varieties

At the heart of the winery’s production is Negroamaro, the symbolic grape of Salento, often cultivated using the traditional alberello pugliese system and harvested by hand to ensure maximum quality.

Alongside it, a wide range of grapes contributes to a diverse and expressive wine collection, including Primitivo, Malvasia Nera, Malvasia Bianca, Montepulciano, Fiano, and Chardonnay.

Among the winery’s most appreciated labels are:

• 961 Novecentosessantuno Appassimento
  A symbolic and celebratory wine: an intense and structured Negroamaro made from partially dried grapes. Smooth and enveloping, with notes of ripe fruit and spices, it is ideal as a meditation wine.
• Passione d’Italia Negroamaro Riserva
  An elegant expression of Negroamaro, balanced and refined, with aromas of cherry and plum enhanced by oak aging that adds complexity.
• Salum (Negroamaro–Primitivo)
  A harmonious blend of two iconic Salento grape varieties. Soft and rounded, with notes of red fruit and cocoa, perfect alongside Mediterranean cuisine.
• Campo Appio Negroamaro
  An award-winning label that showcases the pure expression of the grape with an intense and territorial profile.
• Note di Luna Fiano / Australe Chardonnay
  The winery’s white wines: fresh, aromatic, and approachable, ideal for those looking to discover a different side of the Salento territory.

Every bottle tells a story shaped by sun, wind, and manual work, resulting in wines that are structured, elegant, and deeply connected to the land.

The heart of hospitality

Visiting Cantine San Pancrazio means connecting directly with the wine culture of Salento. The winery welcomes visitors and wine enthusiasts with experiences that offer a close look at every stage of production, from the vineyards to the cellar.

Wine tastings are the most engaging part of the experience. Here, wine is not only something to drink, but something to understand.

Visits often begin with a tour of the production areas, where guests can experience the balance between tradition and technology. The journey continues with guided tastings of different labels, allowing visitors to discover the differences between grape varieties and wine styles, all accompanied by stories about the harvest, the winemaking process, and the history of the cooperative itself.

What makes the experience especially fascinating is its immersive approach: every tasting becomes a sensory journey shaped by aromas, flavors, and storytelling. Negroamaro reveals intense and structured notes, while Primitivo stands out for its softness and warmth.

Visitors also have the opportunity to purchase wines directly at the winery, taking home an authentic piece of Salento.

For travelers, these experiences offer a meaningful way to connect with the territory, transforming a simple winery visit into a vivid and lasting memory.

In the heart of the Bari Murgia, between Gioia del Colle and Acquaviva delle Fonti, stretches an authentic landscape of orderly vineyards, red soil, and peaceful rural silence.

It is here that Cantine Polvanera rises from the limestone rock itself. More than just a winery, it is a sensory experience immersed in the Apulian countryside, only a short distance from iconic destinations such as the Valle d’Itria and Matera. Today, it is considered an international reference point for Primitivo Gioia del Colle DOC.

A family story deeply connected to the land

The story of Polvanera is closely tied to the Cassano family and the local winemaking tradition.

Founded in 2002 by Filippo Cassano, the winery was created with the goal of enhancing the territory through a “pure” approach to winemaking, designed to fully express native grape varieties — above all, Primitivo.

The name “Polvanera” refers to the dark, iron-rich soil of the area, but it is also linked to the history of the 19th-century farmhouse attached to the winery, once associated with charcoal production.

One of the winery’s most distinctive features is its cellar itself: carved approximately eight meters deep into limestone rock, creating naturally constant temperature and humidity conditions ideal for wine aging.

The historic masseria dating back to 1820 also tells the agricultural story of the Marchesana district, once owned by local feudal estates before being redistributed to farmers during the 19th century.

Signature wines: the kingdom of Primitivo

At the center of production is Primitivo di Gioia del Colle, one of Puglia’s historic grape varieties, whose origins date back to Balkan migrations between the 15th and 16th centuries.

Polvanera interprets Primitivo through several labels, including:

• Polvanera 14 – Vigneto Marchesana: aged for 24 months in stainless steel and 12 months in bottle;
• Polvanera 16 – Vigneto San Benedetto: produced from vineyards in Acquaviva delle Fonti and aged in the same style;
• Polvanera 17 – Vigneto Montevella: one of the winery’s deepest and most intense expressions of Primitivo.

Alongside Primitivo, the winery cultivates several native grape varieties — including Aglianico, Minutolo, Negroamaro, and Nero di Troia — across approximately 100–120 hectares of vineyards, with production that is almost entirely organic.

Other standout labels include:

• Minutolo IGT Valle d’Itria (organic)
• Verdeca IGT Puglia (organic)
• Montevella, a traditional-method sparkling rosé

The result is a collection of elegant, fresh wines deeply connected to the terroir and designed to express the most authentic side of Puglia.

Winery experiences

This is where Polvanera transforms from a winery into a true wine tourism destination.

A visit here is far more than a simple tasting — it is an immersive journey through rural architecture, history, and local flavors.

Guests are welcomed inside the historic 1820 farmhouse, carefully restored and transformed into a hospitality space with rustic charm.

The experiences include:

• Guided tours of the underground cellar, carved directly into the rock, with explanations of the production process;
• Wine tastings paired with traditional local products, held inside rooms created within the limestone rock itself;
• Food and wine experiences, featuring local dishes designed to enhance the wines;
• Cultural events and convivial gatherings, making every visit unique.

The true added value lies in the atmosphere itself: tasting a glass of Primitivo exactly where it is born, surrounded by vineyards and dry-stone walls, allows visitors to fully understand the deep connection between wine and territory.

The winery’s strategic location also makes it an ideal stop during a trip through Puglia, easily included in itineraries that combine the sea, historic villages, and countryside landscapes.

Between family history, striking architecture, and engaging tastings, Polvanera offers one of the most complete wine tourism experiences in the region — a place where every glass becomes a journey, and every visit turns into a lasting memory.

In the beating heart of Salento, in San Donaci, Cantine Paolo Leo stands out as one of the most dynamic and fascinating wineries in the Apulian wine scene. Founded in 1989, the company has managed in just a few decades to transform a strong family heritage into a contemporary and ambitious project, becoming a benchmark for those seeking authentic wines deeply connected to the territory.

Nestled within the evocative landscape of the Negroamaro area, the winery is located in an area naturally suited to viticulture: here, clay-limestone soils and the mild Mediterranean climate create the ideal conditions for producing wines that are intense, elegant, and rich in identity.

The history

The story of the Leo family dates back to the early 1900s, when the first vineyards were cultivated to produce wine for family consumption.

The modern winery officially came to life in the 1980s thanks to Paolo Leo, who decided to transform the family tradition into an entrepreneurial project.

Today, the company is an established name in the Apulian wine world, recognized for its ability to combine rural tradition with modern winemaking techniques while maintaining a strong bond with the land.

Wine production between tradition and modernity

Love for Puglia, expertise, family strength, and economic, ethical, and environmental sustainability (certified by Equalitas) are the essential values of the company, which primarily cultivates native grape varieties such as Primitivo, Negroamaro, Malvasia Bianca, and Malvasia Nera.

Alongside the historic headquarters in San Donaci, located in the heart of the Salice Salentino DOC area, a second winery was inaugurated in 2020 in Monteparano, within the Primitivo of Manduria territory, confirming the company’s commitment to continuous expansion and innovation.

Tastings and Winery Experiences

Cantine Paolo Leo offers a wide range of tastings and experiences designed to immerse guests in the authentic world of Salento wine. These experiences are carefully created to guide visitors through the company’s philosophy and the territory itself, combining culture, flavor, and conviviality.

Among the winery’s most representative labels are:

• Passo del Cardinale (Primitivo di Manduria DOC), one of the signature wines, intense and smooth
• Orfeo (Negroamaro), an elegant red with notes of ripe fruit
• Moramora (Malvasia Nera Salento IGP), a soft and aromatic red that highlights a less common grape variety
• Calaluna (Fiano Puglia IGP), fragrant and mineral-driven, one of the winery’s most successful white wines
• Grecìa Rosé (Negroamaro rosé), fresh and versatile, among the most recognizable rosés in the collection.

Among the main experiences available are:

• Guided winery tours, including walks through vineyards, vinification areas, and the barrel cellar to discover every stage of production
• Guided tastings, featuring representative wines paired with local Salento products such as taralli, cheeses, and cured meats
• Thematic wine experiences, dedicated to specific grape varieties or production lines
• Winery aperitifs, more informal moments to enjoy the wines in a relaxed atmosphere accompanied by an aperitif or light lunch with traditional Apulian orecchiette
• Mormora Experience Mare, an underwater diving or snorkeling activity to retrieve a bottle of wine from the sea followed by a tasting of the same wine — an original experience designed for adventurous visitors!

Every experience is designed to enhance the flavors of the territory and offer an engaging journey that combines discovery, tradition, and innovation, making every visit a unique memory in the heart of Salento.

Sustainability and Future Vision

One of the defining features of Cantine Paolo Leo is the balance between tradition and modernity. The winery features cutting-edge facilities covering approximately 24,000 square meters, including modern vinification systems, a barrel cellar, and a bottling line capable of producing up to 7,000 bottles per hour.

Cantine Paolo Leo places great emphasis on sustainability, adopting environmentally respectful practices and obtaining certifications that attest to the company’s economic, ethical, and environmental commitment.

The production philosophy is based on a clear principle: enhancing the territory without altering its essence, creating wines that combine quality, authenticity, and elegance while always preserving the original character of the grapes.

Today, Cantine Paolo Leo represents the perfect synthesis of past and future: a winery that has grown while preserving its core values, becoming an ambassador of Apulian wine around the world.

In the heart of the most authentic Salento, surrounded by neatly lined vineyards, ancient olive trees, and the intense light of southern Puglia, stands Leone de Castris, one of the oldest and most iconic wineries in the Italian wine scene.

The historic estate is located in Salice Salentino, a small rural village in the province of Lecce that has lived in harmony with wine culture for centuries. Here, life still seems to follow the rhythm of the harvest and the changing seasons, offering visitors an experience deeply connected to the land.

Visiting this winery means stepping into a story that spans more than 350 years, where family tradition, innovation, and love for the territory coexist in perfect balance.

A history spanning more than three centuries

The story of Leone de Castris began in 1665, when Oronzo Arcangelo Maria Francesco dei Conti di Lemos founded the winery in the territory of Salice Salentino. Since then, generations of the family have preserved and enhanced a unique agricultural and cultural heritage, playing a decisive role in the development of Apulian viticulture.

Over the centuries, the family invested in large estates between Salice, Guagnano, Veglie, and other towns across Salento, planting vineyards, olive groves, and agricultural crops that still define the local landscape today.

As early as the beginning of the 19th century, the winery’s wines were already being exported abroad, particularly to France, Germany, and the United States.

The modern turning point came in 1925, when Piero Leone Plantera and Lisetta de Castris began bottling the estate’s wines — a revolutionary decision at the time, especially in Puglia, where wine was mainly sold in bulk.

Five Roses: Italy’s first rosé wine

If there is one label that truly represents the soul of the winery, it is undoubtedly the famous Five Roses.

Created in 1943 during the World War II, it is considered the first bottled and commercially released rosé wine in Italy. Its story is closely connected to American General Charles Poletti, who was responsible for supplying Allied forces and requested a large quantity of Apulian rosé wine for U.S. soldiers stationed in Italy.

To give the wine a more international appeal, the name “Five Roses” was chosen, inspired by the “Cinque Rose” district owned by the de Castris family.

Even today, Five Roses remains one of the most recognizable symbols of Apulian wine worldwide: an elegant, fresh, and identity-driven rosé produced mainly from Negroamaro and Malvasia Nera grapes.

Salice Salentino DOC and the great wines of the territory

Talking about Salice Salentino inevitably means talking about Negroamaro, the native grape variety that plays the leading role in the winery’s production and finds one of its finest expressions in the Salice Salentino DOC appellation.

In 1954, the winery introduced the Salice Leone de Castris, a wine that played a major role in building the reputation of the denomination and later accompanied the official recognition of the Salice Salentino DOC during the 1970s.

Today, the winery produces a wide range of DOC and IGT wines from Salento and Puglia, including:

• structured reds made from Negroamaro and Primitivo grapes;
• iconic rosé wines;
• aromatic and mineral-driven white wines;
• sparkling wines;
• grappas and spirits;
• premium selections dedicated to native Apulian grape varieties.

Alongside historic grapes such as Negroamaro, Malvasia Nera, Verdeca, Aleatico, Susumaniello, and Primitivo, the winery has also introduced international varieties like Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc over the years, while always maintaining a strong connection to its territorial identity.

Despite preserving centuries of tradition, Leone de Castris continues to evolve. Annual production now exceeds one and a half million bottles, and the winery exports to international markets ranging from the United States and Japan to Canada and Australia.

Its production philosophy remains deeply rooted in the promotion of Apulian territory: every wine is made exclusively from grapes grown in Puglia — a choice the winery considers a strength rather than a limitation.

Winery experiences: tastings, tours, and wine tourism

The true charm of Leone de Castris is best discovered by experiencing the winery firsthand.

In recent years, wine tourism has become a central part of the experience offered by the estate, welcoming both Italian and international visitors through immersive journeys into the history, wine, and culture of Salento.

Guided tours lead guests through the historic production areas, from the old aging rooms to the bottling facilities, accompanied by stories about the family and the evolution of Apulian wine. Every visit becomes a journey through time, where agricultural tradition and modern winemaking constantly interact.

The tastings are especially memorable, designed to highlight the character of the region’s great wines. Visitors can sample several of the winery’s iconic labels — from Five Roses to the prestigious reds of Salice Salentino — often paired with local specialties, extra virgin olive oil, and traditional dishes from Salento cuisine.

For those looking for a more complete experience, the winery also offers the Wine Hotel Villa Donna Lisa, an elegant property surrounded by the peaceful Salento countryside. Here, guests can stay among vineyards and olive groves, enjoy private tastings, and transform a simple winery visit into a true wine tourism experience.

Another highlight is the Wine Museum Piero e Salvatore Leone de Castris, a wine museum that preserves historical documents, traditional tools, and testimonies of Apulia’s winemaking heritage.

For wine tourism enthusiasts, for travelers seeking authentic local flavors, or simply for anyone wishing to experience the truest soul of Salento, Leone de Castris is an unmissable destination.

In the authentic heart of Salento, surrounded by dry stone walls, ancient olive trees, and endless vineyards, lies L’Astore Masseria: a place where time seems to slow down and wine becomes storytelling, experience, and identity.

Just a few kilometers from both the Ionian and Adriatic coasts, the winery is located in Cutrofiano, in the very heart of the Salento peninsula.

Here, immersed in around 80 hectares of countryside filled with vineyards, olive groves, and cultivated fields, the masseria welcomes visitors into an authentic rural setting, far from the busiest tourist routes yet deeply connected to the soul of the region.

A Story of family and Renewal

The story of the winery dates back to the 1930s, when the Benegiamo family acquired the masseria, gradually transforming it into an important agricultural landmark for the area.

Wine production began to flourish in the 1940s, when large quantities of wine were produced and sold in bulk. After a quieter period during the 1970s and 1980s, the real turning point arrived in the late 1990s, when the family decided to focus on quality, investing in soil studies and selecting the best native grape varieties.

Next to the historic 18th-century underground olive mill — one of the largest in Salento — the family created a stunning underground barrel cellar, often described by visitors as a true “Cathedral of Wine”, perfectly symbolizing the meeting of tradition and innovation.

Wines and Production: Salento Identity in Every Bottle

Today, L’Astore Masseria is an organic winery producing around 60,000–80,000 bottles per year, with a strong focus on expressing the authentic Salento terroir.

The vineyards are home to some of the region’s most representative grape varieties:

• Negroamaro
• Primitivo
• Malvasia Nera and Malvasia Bianca Antica
• Susumaniello

Among the winery’s standout labels are:

• Jema, a powerful expression of Primitivo
• Filimei, an elegant and identity-driven Negroamaro
• Alberelli di Negroamaro 1947, a tribute to the region’s agricultural heritage
• Susumaniello and other single-varietal wines that celebrate local biodiversity.

The production philosophy is clear: respect for the land, sustainable agriculture, and the recovery of native grape varieties — even rare ones — through a true ampelographic collection dedicated to Salento vines.

Experiences and Wine Tastings

Visiting L’Astore Masseria is much more than simply tasting wine — it’s an immersive and multisensory experience.

The visitor journey unfolds like a story:

• it begins in the 18th-century underground olive mill, where guests discover the history of olive oil production and rural farming culture;
• it continues into the spectacular underground barrel cellar, with its beautiful Lecce stone vaults;
• and finally reaches the most anticipated moment: the wine tasting experience.

The tastings are designed as real moments of discovery:

• guests can sample several winery labels (from 3 up to 7 wines, depending on the selected experience)
• wines are often paired with local specialties such as taralli, bruschetta, cheeses, and traditional Salento products
• experiences may take place in the garden at sunset or inside the winery’s atmospheric indoor spaces.

What truly makes the experience special is the emotional connection it creates. It’s not just about tasting wine, but about listening to stories, traditions, anecdotes, and even the inspirations behind each label. In some experiences, wine is even narrated through poetry and cultural references, creating a deep bond between the product and the territory.

The warm and convivial atmosphere also plays a central role: the presence of the owners or passionate guides makes every visit unique, turning each tasting into a genuine moment of Salento hospitality and sharing.

For travelers exploring Salento and looking to go beyond the beaches, L’Astore Masseria is a truly special stop — a place capable of telling the authentic story of this land through every single glass of wine.

In the most authentic heart of Puglia, between the whitewashed landscapes of Locorotondo and the countryside surrounding Martina Franca, lies I Pàstini, one of the wineries that best represents the spirit of the Itria Valley. Here, wine is much more than agricultural production: it is memory, preservation of tradition, and a deep connection to the land.

Surrounded by dry-stone walls, trulli houses, and rolling hills, the winery enjoys a privileged location just a few kilometers from the historic center of Locorotondo, considered one of Italy’s most beautiful villages. The road leading to the estate winds through neat vineyards and peaceful countryside, immediately giving visitors the feeling of entering an authentic side of Puglia — far from mass tourism and deeply connected to its rural identity.

A family story rooted in the recovery of local heritage

The story of I Pàstini began in 1996 thanks to the Carparelli family, with a clear and ambitious goal: to recover and promote the ancient native grape varieties of the Itria Valley.

At a time when many historic grapes were at risk of disappearing, the winery started a long research project among the area’s oldest vineyards, identifying ancient vines from which cuttings and buds could be taken to create new plantings.

The name “Pastini” itself comes from the Latin word Pastinum, referring to land prepared for vine cultivation — a direct reference to Apulian farming culture and centuries of agricultural knowledge passed down through generations.

Today, the estate covers around 18 hectares cultivated with full respect for the environment. The winery’s philosophy focuses on sustainable farming, hand-harvested grapes, and the exclusive use of indigenous grape varieties capable of expressing the territory through every glass.

The iconic grapes of the Itria Valley

One of the most fascinating aspects of I Pàstini is its decision to focus almost entirely on historic Apulian grape varieties, many of which are still relatively unknown to the wider public despite their remarkable personality.

Among the white grape varieties are:

• Verdeca
• Bianco d’Alessano
• Minutolo

While the red varieties include:

• Susumaniello
• Primitivo

These grapes, cultivated in the unique microclimate of the Itria Valley — characterized by strong temperature variations and limestone-rich soils — produce wines that are fresh, mineral-driven, and elegant, very different from the traditional image of powerful and high-alcohol Apulian wines.

The winery’s signature labels

Among the winery’s most iconic wines is the Antico Locorotondo DOP, a white wine that perfectly reflects local tradition, made from Verdeca, Bianco d’Alessano, and Minutolo grapes. Fresh, floral, and savory, it beautifully captures the identity of the territory.

Other standout labels include:

• Il Faraone, made from Verdeca grapes, elegant and mineral;
• Rampone, which highlights the Minutolo grape with intense aromatic notes and excellent drinkability.

When it comes to reds, the true star is undoubtedly Susumaniello, an ancient grape variety that has recently been rediscovered. The label Le Fusa offers a modern interpretation of this grape: a fresh and easy-drinking red wine with notes of cherry, red berries, and delicate spicy nuances.

The winery also produces interesting sparkling wines, particularly the Spumante Brut Metodo Charmat made from Verdeca grapes, known for its floral aromas, citrus notes, and vibrant freshness.

The winery experience

The true strength of I Pàstini lies in the wine tourism experience it offers visitors. A visit to the winery goes far beyond simply tasting wine — it becomes an immersive journey into the winemaking culture of the Itria Valley.

The wine tour takes guests through vineyards of Verdeca, Minutolo, Bianco d’Alessano, Susumaniello, and Primitivo, surrounded by rural landscapes of rare beauty. The experience then continues inside the historic 18th-century masseria and the winery production areas, where visitors learn about the winemaking techniques and the philosophy behind the estate.

Naturally, the most engaging moment is the final tasting. Here, guests can sample several of the winery’s labels while discovering the story of the territory, the grape varieties, and the sensory characteristics of each wine. Tastings are often paired with traditional Apulian products, creating a complete sensory experience designed to showcase the identity of the Itria Valley.

What truly makes the experience special is the atmosphere. There are no artificial or overly tourist-oriented experiences here — only genuine hospitality and a warm family welcome that clearly reflects the deep bond between the winery and its land. Visitors immediately sense the passion behind every bottle.

For those wishing to explore further, the winery also runs the Bottega de I Pàstini in the center of Locorotondo, where visitors can taste and purchase the full wine selection, including older vintages and special bottle formats.

A project connected to sustainability

Among the winery’s most original initiatives is “Adopt a Vineyard”, an eco-friendly project that allows wine lovers to symbolically become guardians of a row of vines. Participants can follow the growth of their vineyard remotely, visit their adopted vines, and receive bottles produced from the grapes they helped support.

It is an engaging and intelligent way to bring people closer to wine culture and to the agricultural life of the Itria Valley.

For anyone visiting Locorotondo and the Itria Valley, a stop at I Pàstini is more than just recommended — it is one of the best ways to truly understand the agricultural and cultural soul of this extraordinary corner of Puglia.

In the heart of the most authentic Salento, among sunlit vineyards and ancient farming traditions, stands Feudi di Guagnano — a winery that tells the deep soul of this land, one glass at a time.

Here, just a few kilometers from the Ionian coast, wine is more than production: it is memory, identity, and hospitality.

Guagnano, a small village in the province of Lecce, is considered one of the capitals of Negroamaro, the iconic grape variety of Puglia. It is here that the winery has its roots, in a territory historically devoted to viticulture, where wine culture is deeply intertwined with everyday life.

Surrounded by ancient vineyards and rural landscapes, Feudi di Guagnano presents itself as a true wine destination — a place where visitors can connect directly with nature and with the slow rhythm of the seasons.

A story of family and renewal

The winery’s story is, above all, one of resilience and love for the land.

Founded in 2002 by Gianvito, Carlo, and Franco — grandchildren of local winemakers — the estate was created with a clear mission: to save the ancient Negroamaro and Primitivo vineyards inherited from their grandparents from abandonment.

At a time when it would have been easier to leave the land behind or convert it to other uses, the founders chose instead to preserve and enhance this agricultural heritage.

Since then, the winery has carried forward a tradition spanning more than eighty years, built on sacrifice, passion, and a deep connection to the territory.

Today, Feudi di Guagnano cultivates around four hectares of organic vineyards and produces approximately 100,000 bottles each year, many of which are exported around the world.

Identity-driven wines: tradition and character

The winery’s production is strongly rooted in native grape varieties: Negroamaro, Primitivo, and Malvasia Nera, alongside varieties such as Verdeca.

Among the most appreciated labels are:

• Nero di Velluto, one of the winery’s most iconic and award-winning wines, symbolizing the intensity of Negroamaro;
• Rosarò and other elegant, fresh rosé wines that perfectly evoke the spirit of the Salento coast;
• Diecianni Chardonnay and other whites that are delicate yet well-structured;
• Organic lines such as Vegamaro Bio and Vigne Salve.

Every bottle is crafted with meticulous attention, including hand-harvesting and artisanal care, to fully express the character of the territory.

Winery experiences: living the wine

Visiting Feudi di Guagnano means embracing a slower pace, filled with stories, aromas, and flavors that speak directly of Salento.

Here, wine tasting is never rushed. Instead, it becomes a guided journey through the history, land, and people behind every bottle.

Among the winery’s most authentic experiences is:

• “La Marenna”, a tribute to rural tradition. The name recalls the simple meal once enjoyed by farmers in the fields, and that same spirit lives on today through a convivial experience featuring local cured meats, cheeses, and baked specialties paired with four representative wines from the winery. The tasting takes place inside the atmospheric barrel cellar, where stories and anecdotes about the world of wine make the experience both cultural and sensory.
• For visitors who wish to explore the identity of the territory more deeply, “Signor Negroamaro” is a journey entirely dedicated to Salento’s signature grape. Through this experience, Negroamaro is explored in all its expressions — from fresh and fragrant rosés to deeper, more structured reds. Guests discover the origins of the grape’s name, cultivation methods, and the characteristics that make it so unique, always paired with traditional local products that enhance every tasting.
• There is also an experience designed for those looking for something more unconventional: “Beviamolo Strano”. Here, wine is tasted in unexpected settings — among the vineyards at sunset or directly from the barrel while observing the wine’s evolution up close. It is a more intimate and immersive experience, where nature becomes an essential part of the tasting and every sip is connected to the surrounding landscape.

What makes these experiences even more meaningful is the opportunity to walk through the organic vineyards, hear the story behind Nero di Velluto — the winery’s symbolic wine — and discover firsthand the work hidden behind every bottle.

In this way, the visit becomes a continuous narrative where wine acts as the thread connecting visitors to the true essence of the territory.

Ultimately, Feudi di Guagnano is far more than just a winery. It is a place where wine becomes storytelling, connection, and discovery.

For travelers seeking an experience that combines landscape, culture, and authentic flavors, this winery is an unmissable stop — a place where every glass becomes a journey into the history and soul of Southern Italy.

Among the gentle hills of the Murge plateau near Bari, where limestone rocks meet perfectly lined vineyards and the wind carries the scents of red soil and Mediterranean scrub, you’ll find Fatalone. This historic winery in Gioia del Colle represents one of the most authentic expressions of Apulian wine culture: a family-run estate that has been preserving the true character of Gioia del Colle Primitivo for more than a century through organic wines, immersive experiences, and a deep connection to the land.

The winery sits on the Spinomarino hill, around 385 meters above sea level, in one of the most distinctive areas of Gioia del Colle. Here, the landscape feels very different from the classic image of coastal Puglia: temperatures are cooler, day-to-night temperature swings are significant, and the limestone-rich karst soil gives the wines a remarkable mineral elegance.

Fatalone fits naturally into this setting, becoming not just a winery but a true symbol of Apulian wine identity.

A family story spanning five generations

The story of Fatalone began in the late 19th century, when Nicola Petrera built the family farmhouse in the heart of the estate. Since then, generation after generation, the Petrera family has continued cultivating vines with an artisanal philosophy rooted in respect for nature.

The name “Fatalone” comes from the nickname of Filippo Petrera, Nicola’s son, who was known in the village as “il Fatalone” — a dialect expression used for a charismatic man with irresistible charm. Over time, that nickname became the symbol of the winery and a recognizable name in the Apulian wine scene.

In 1987, the winery made a groundbreaking decision for the region: it became one of the first producers to bottle Primitivo di Gioia del Colle as a single-varietal wine, playing a key role in promoting and elevating the denomination. In the following years, Fatalone also became one of the founding promoters of the Consortium for the Protection of Gioia del Colle DOC Wines, strengthening the area’s reputation as the historic homeland of Primitivo.

True organic farming and sustainability

One of the most fascinating aspects of the winery is the consistency with which it follows a natural and sustainable farming philosophy. Fatalone has practiced organic agriculture for decades, long before “organic” became a commercial trend. The grapes come exclusively from the estate’s own vineyards surrounding the farmhouse, with zero-kilometer production and entirely manual work in the vineyards.

Fermentation takes place naturally using indigenous yeasts, sulfites are kept to a minimum, and many wines are left unfiltered to preserve the authentic identity of both the fruit and the territory. The winery is also powered by solar energy and produces zero CO2 emission wines, making it a concrete example of environmental sustainability in winemaking.

The iconic wines of Fatalone

The wine that best represents the soul of the winery is undoubtedly the Primitivo Gioia del Colle DOC Riserva Fatalone. It is an intense, deep, and long-lived red wine that combines structure, freshness, and mineral elegance. This is the wine that brought the winery international recognition and proved how beautifully Primitivo di Gioia del Colle can age over time.

One of the winery’s most celebrated events was a vertical tasting featuring ten vintages of the Riserva, highlighting the extraordinary aging potential of this grape variety.

Alongside the Riserva, the winery also produces several other remarkable labels:

• Primitivo Teres: more immediate and fruit-forward, while still maintaining the winery’s elegant style;
• Spinomarino Greco: an identity-driven white wine made from Greco grapes, fresh, savory, and surprisingly complex;
• Primitivo DOC Gioia del Colle: an authentic expression of the grape, with notes of ripe cherry, spices, and Mediterranean herbs.

Today, Fatalone wines are exported worldwide and have received numerous international awards, from leading Italian wine guides to competitions such as the Decanter World Wine Awards.

The winery experience

It is through the winery experience itself that Fatalone truly wins over its visitors.

The visit often begins among the vineyards surrounding the historic farmhouse, where the Murgia landscape reveals all its raw and essential beauty. Walking through the vines allows visitors to fully understand how deeply the terroir shapes the wines: the rocky soil, breezy climate, and organic farming practices become tangible elements rather than concepts written on a label.

At the heart of the experience is the winery carved into the rock, a fascinating space where tradition and technology coexist in harmony. Here, visitors can closely observe the winemaking and aging processes while listening to stories shared directly by the Petrera family or the winery staff.

Guided tastings offer the chance to sample different labels paired with traditional Apulian products such as local cheeses, focaccia, artisanal cured meats, and extra virgin olive oil from the area. The Primitivo Riserva is often presented as a meditation wine, slowly evolving in the glass and revealing different layers with every sip.

One of the aspects visitors appreciate most is the warm and authentic atmosphere. Rather than feeling like a tourist attraction built for visitors, Fatalone offers the sense of stepping into the everyday life of a historic Apulian winery. It is a slow, genuine, and deeply human approach that transforms wine tasting into a meaningful connection with the territory.

For wine tourism enthusiasts, Fatalone is also an ideal starting point for exploring the Murgia of Trulli, the inland villages of the Bari area, and the culinary traditions of northern Puglia.

For those who love wine, slow travel, and authentic experiences, this winery in Gioia del Colle is more than just a recommended stop — it is a place to experience slowly, glass in hand, guided by the stories of a family that has been preserving the truest soul of Apulian Primitivo for five generations.