Why Puglia's whites are southern Italy's most underrated discovery

While Puglia's reds have gained growing attention in recent years, the region's whites remain a discovery for many wine lovers. Between the Valle d'Itria and the Murge, some native grapes almost unknown beyond regional borders offer fresh, savoury, surprisingly elegant profiles for a territory with a warm climate.

Valle d'Itria and Gravina: the territories of Puglia's whites

In the Valle d'Itria, among the trulli of Alberobello and Locorotondo, the Locorotondo DOC and Martina Franca DOC denominations share a blend based on Verdeca and Bianco d'Alessano, grapes capable of giving fresh, delicate whites despite the Mediterranean climate. The same area is also home to Fiano Minutolo, a native aromatic grape rediscovered in recent decades thanks to the work of certain local producers, now increasingly vinified as a varietal. Further north, towards the border with Basilicata, the Gravina DOC denomination is based mainly on Malvasia and Greco, giving rise to whites with a different character from those of the Valle d'Itria.

From fresh Verdeca to aromatic Fiano Minutolo: the styles of Puglia's whites

Verdeca and Bianco d'Alessano generally give fresh, light, easy-drinking wines with a pleasant tangy note that balances the region's warm climate. Fiano Minutolo instead stands out for a much more aromatic profile, with citrus and white flower notes that make it immediately recognisable. Gravina, based on Malvasia and Greco, offers an in-between style, with slightly more structure and a distinctive savouriness.

At the table with Puglia's whites: pairings that work

Locorotondo and Martina Franca naturally accompany vegetable starters, burrata, and simple fish dishes typical of Puglian cuisine. Fiano Minutolo, given its aromatic character, pairs well with shellfish dishes or preparations with aromatic herbs. Gravina finds its ideal pairing in first courses seasoned with vegetables or medium-structured fish.

Which Puglia white to choose, depending on the occasion

For an aperitif or a casual meal, a Locorotondo or a Martina Franca remain the most natural, versatile choices. Anyone seeking a more aromatic, distinctive white can discover Fiano Minutolo, less well known but full of character. For a meal built around vegetables or medium-structured fish, Gravina offers a different profile worth exploring.

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between Locorotondo and Martina Franca?

They share the same blend based on Verdeca and Bianco d'Alessano and come from neighbouring areas of the Valle d'Itria, with minimal differences mainly due to each area's specific microclimate.

What is Fiano Minutolo?

It's a native Puglian aromatic grape, distinct from Campanian Fiano despite the similar name, rediscovered in recent decades and now increasingly vinified as a varietal for its distinctive aromatic profile.

Are Puglia's whites suited to ageing?

Most are made for relatively young consumption, given their freshness and immediacy, although some more refined Fiano Minutolo interpretations can show a little bottle evolution.

Is Gravina a Puglian or a Basilicata denomination?

It's a Puglian denomination, but it sits on the border with Basilicata, a transitional area sharing some soil and climate characteristics with the neighbouring region.