White Wines

Salento White Wines: Tradition and Innovation in Apulian Viticulture

Salento white wines represent a fundamental component of Apulian winemaking, combining traditional native varieties with international grape varieties perfectly adapted to the Mediterranean climate. These wines express the unique freshness and minerality of the Salento territory.

White Grape Varieties

Apulian white wines are based on a rich ampelographic heritage that unites tradition and modernity:

  • Moscato – Traditional aromatic grape variety, produces sweet and sparkling wines with intense floral aromas and peach notes
  • Malvasia Bianca – Native variety with Mediterranean character, creates elegant wines with white flower and citrus scents
  • Verdeca – Historic Apulian grape variety, produces fresh and savory wines with herbaceous and mineral notes
  • Fiano – Ancient variety from Southern Italy, produces structured wines with honey and exotic fruit aromas
  • Chardonnay – International grape variety that has become the most cultivated in Salento, perfectly adapted to the Apulian terroir

Distinctive Characteristics

Salento white wines are characterized by:

Freshness and sapidity – Vibrant acidity and minerality derived from limestone soils
Mediterranean elegance – Intense aromas of white flowers, citrus fruits and Mediterranean scrubland
Versatility – Suitable for both young consumption and aging

Denominations and Territory

The Salento territory boasts prestigious denominations for white wines: Salice Salentino DOC Bianco, Leverano DOC Bianco, Copertino DOC Bianco and the versatile Salento IGT, which allows great winemaking creativity.

The Chardonnay Phenomenon

Particularly interesting is the case of Chardonnay in Salento: despite having no historical ties with Puglia, this international grape variety has become the most widespread white grape in the Salento peninsula. Its perfect adaptability to the Apulian climate and soils has given birth to white wines of excellent quality and international recognition.

Food Pairings

Salento white wines pair perfectly with Mediterranean cuisine: raw fish dishes, orecchiette pasta with turnip greens, Apulian burrata cheese, focaccia bread from Bari, and vegetable-based dishes typical of Salento tradition.

Discover the best Salento white wines: fresh, elegant, aromatic and perfect expression of the sun and sea of Puglia.