Puglia's Susumaniello grape undergoes a modern renaissance

The ancient Susumaniello red grape from Puglia’s Brindisi province is experiencing a significant revival in the Italian wine industry. Once nearly lost due to a focus on high yields and mass production in the early 1990s, the variety is being rediscovered by a new generation of producers and international sommeliers.

Producers like Luigi Rubino have led the recovery by shifting focus from quantity to quality, utilizing traditional bush-trained vines and careful viticulture at estates such as Jaddico. The grape is noted for its deep color, vibrant acidity, and aromatic profile featuring black fruits, Mediterranean herbs, and spices.

In the nearby Galatina region, local wine traditions continue to flourish. Labels such as Ombra Antica Galatina Rosso, made from 100% Negroamaro, draw cultural inspiration from the Torravento monastery and the local tarantata folk traditions of Salento.