Locorotondo

• Verdeca: Known for its lively acidity, this grape is essential to Locorotondo blends, with citrus and herbal flavors.
• Bianco d’Alessano: Adds apple and pear notes, boosting the wine's fresh acidity.
• Fiano: Introduces floral aromas and a hint of tropical fruit, enhancing complexity.
• Other Local Whites: Varieties such as Malvasia Bianca and Bombino Bianco contribute up to 15% of the blend, adding subtle nuances.
• Wine Styles: Predominantly dry and unoaked, these wines are best enjoyed young, showcasing flavors of lemon, green apple, and almond with a touch of saltiness and minerality. Traditional lightly sparkling (frizzante) and fully sparkling versions are also produced.

The terroir of Locorotondo features a unique karst landscape, with vineyards surrounding hilltop towns and countryside dotted with trulli. These gentle hills allow vines to thrive on terraces, drawing from a blend of limestone and clay soils. The rocky, well-drained conditions promote deep root growth, giving the wines a strong mineral quality and concentrated flavors.

The Mediterranean climate has hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. The Adriatic Sea's proximity and elevation provide beneficial airflow and temperature changes, essential for maintaining grape acidity. An annual rainfall of about 600 mm occurs mostly outside the growing season, while ample sunshine ensures optimal grape ripeness. These conditions, combined with minimal irrigation and careful vine management, result in wines with vibrant acidity and a clear mineral character.

The picturesque Valle d’Itria in southeastern Italy, particularly around Locorotondo, is celebrated for its distinctive white wines and hosts several notable wineries. Here are a few that stand out:

• I Pàstini: A family-run gem known for their crisp Locorotondo blends, capturing the essence of the region.
• Cantina Sociale di Locorotondo: This historic cooperative embodies the classic style of the DOC, offering authentic expressions of the area's terroir.
• Cardone: A family estate specializing in fresh, pure whites, expertly fermented in stainless steel to preserve their vibrant character.
• Masseria Tagaro: A small producer adhering to traditional methods, including a lightly sparkling wine that charms the palate.
• Albea (Alberobello): Situated nearby, this winery showcases the unique limestone-driven character of Valle d’Itria wines.

In the picturesque Valle d’Itria, sustainability is woven into the fabric of winemaking. The region’s warm summers naturally deter pests, allowing farmers to reduce chemical use and embrace organic and low-intervention practices. Many have adopted biodynamic farming, enriching the soil with compost and cover crops.

Drip irrigation is used judiciously, with cover crops and grasses planted between vine rows to prevent erosion and boost biodiversity. The deep roots of the vines access moisture from the limestone-rich soil, minimizing water use.

Innovative energy solutions, such as solar panels, power winemaking processes, while the use of recycled or lighter glass helps reduce the carbon footprint. Local initiatives further support sustainable pest management and energy conservation, ensuring the region’s winemaking remains environmentally responsible.

Wine tourism in Locorotondo, part of Italy's Valle d’Itria, offers a captivating blend of culture, nature, and viticulture. Visitors can discover the region’s unique circular old town and savor chilled DOC whites at local wine bars, perfectly complemented by regional dishes.

Exploring local wineries provides an authentic taste of the area, often paired with cheeses like burrata and seafood from the Adriatic. Cycling through gentle terrain connects Locorotondo to neighboring towns, enhancing the scenic experience.

Wine festivals and open-cellar weekends offer lively opportunities to meet producers, enjoy music, and engage in guided tastings. The local cuisine, rich in fresh seafood, aged cheeses, and traditional orecchiette, highlights the farm-to-table and sea-to-glass culture. This vibrant region, with its focus on sustainability and traditional wine methods, creates an enriching experience for those passionate about wine and cultural heritage.