Discovering the Hidden Wines of Southern Italy with the EU Sommelier Association
- alessiabizzarri
- May 4
- 6 min read
Southern Italy is often overshadowed by its more famous wine regions. Yet, beyond the well-known labels and popular varieties, there lies a quieter, more intricate world of wines. These wines come from indigenous grapes, grown in volcanic soils, crafted by producers who work just beyond the spotlight.
On 19 May, the EU Sommelier Association invites you to explore this unique world through a special tasting event. It’s a chance to experience wines that express their place with precision and character, offering fresh perspectives on Southern Italy’s rich wine heritage.
Let me take you on a journey through some of the most fascinating grape varieties from this region: Nero di Troia, Gaglioppo, Coda di Volpe, and Bombino Bianco. Along the way, I’ll share insights into their origins, flavours, and why they deserve a place on your table.
The Unique Terroir of Southern Italy
Southern Italy’s wine story is deeply tied to its land. Volcanic soils, Mediterranean climate, and centuries-old traditions shape the wines here. Unlike the more commercialized regions, many producers focus on native grapes that reflect their terroir rather than following global trends.
This region’s vineyards often sit on hillsides with rich volcanic earth, which gives the wines a distinct mineral edge and complexity. The climate, with hot days and cool nights, helps grapes develop balanced acidity and ripe flavours.
The wines you’ll taste on 19 May are carefully selected for their ability to tell this story. Each glass reveals a different side of Southern Italy — unexpected, precise, and unmistakably Southern.
Exploring Nero di Troia: The Bold Red from Puglia
Nero di Troia is a red grape native to Puglia, the heel of Italy’s boot. It’s a variety that doesn’t often get the attention it deserves outside Italy, but it’s gaining recognition for its bold character and versatility.
Nero di Troia is a variety of red grape that embodies the essence of Puglia, with deep roots in Italian winemaking tradition. This grape variety is distinguished by its robust tannins and complex structure, offering intense aromas of berries, spices, and floral notes. With proper aging, Nero di Troia reveals a surprising elegance and longevity, making it an ideal companion for rich and flavorful dishes.
Wines made from Nero di Troia typically show deep colour, firm tannins, and flavours of dark berries, spices, and sometimes a hint of earthiness. The grape thrives in the warm climate and volcanic soils of the region, producing wines that can age well but are also enjoyable young.
If you want to try a wine that truly expresses Puglia’s spirit, Nero di Troia is a great choice. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, rich pasta dishes, and aged cheeses.
Gaglioppo and Coda di Volpe: Southern Italy’s Indigenous Treasures
Gaglioppo is another red grape that grows mainly in Calabria. It’s known for producing wines with bright acidity, moderate tannins, and flavours of red cherries, herbs, and sometimes a smoky note. Gaglioppo wines are often medium-bodied and food-friendly, making them perfect for everyday drinking. What makes Gaglioppo particularly special is its ability to reflect the terroir of Calabria, showcasing the region's unique volcanic soils and climate, which contribute to its vibrant character and complexity.
Coda di Volpe, on the other hand, is a white grape variety found in Campania. Its name means “tail of the fox,” referring to the shape of the grape bunches. This grape produces fresh, aromatic wines with notes of citrus, white flowers, and a touch of minerality. It’s a great example of how Southern Italy’s whites can be lively and expressive. What sets Coda di Volpe apart is its versatility; it can be crafted into both still and sparkling wines, and its aromatic profile makes it an excellent companion for seafood dishes, enhancing the dining experience.
Both grapes highlight the diversity of Southern Italy’s wine landscape. They show how indigenous varieties can offer unique flavours that stand apart from more common international grapes.
Bombino Bianco: A Fresh White from the South
Bombino Bianco is a white grape variety grown mainly in Puglia and Abruzzo. It’s often used in blends but can also produce single-varietal wines that are fresh, light, and easy to drink.
Peculiarities of Bombino Bianco
Bombino Bianco is characterized by its high acidity and moderate alcohol levels, making it an ideal choice for producing crisp, refreshing wines. The grape's thick skin contributes to its resilience against diseases, allowing it to thrive in the warm, sunny climates of southern Italy. This variety is known for its ability to retain freshness even in warmer conditions, which is a significant advantage for winemakers.
Flavor Profile
The flavor profile of Bombino Bianco typically includes notes of green apple, pear, and citrus, with subtle floral and herbal undertones. Its bright acidity enhances the wine's freshness, making it an excellent pairing for seafood, light pasta dishes, and fresh salads.
Specialty of Bombino Bianco
One of the unique aspects of Bombino Bianco is its versatility. While it is commonly found in blends, winemakers are increasingly recognizing its potential as a standalone varietal. When vinified alone, Bombino Bianco can showcase a distinct minerality and complexity that reflects the terroir of the regions where it is grown. This has led to a resurgence of interest in Bombino Bianco, as both producers and consumers seek out its unique characteristics.
Conclusion
In summary, Bombino Bianco is a grape variety that embodies the essence of southern Italian winemaking. Its refreshing qualities, adaptability, and potential for producing high-quality wines make it a noteworthy choice for wine enthusiasts looking to explore the diverse offerings of Italian white wines.
These wines typically have crisp acidity and flavours of green apple, pear, and sometimes a hint of almond. Bombino Bianco wines are perfect for warm weather and pair well with seafood, salads, and light pasta dishes.
This grape is a great example of how Southern Italy’s whites can be both refreshing and complex, offering a different experience from the more famous Italian whites like Pinot Grigio or Verdicchio.
Wines That Tell a Story: The EU Sommelier Association Tasting
The tasting event on 19 May is not just about drinking wine. It’s about discovering wines that express their origin and character. The EU Sommelier Association has carefully selected wines that showcase the best of Southern Italy’s indigenous grapes and terroirs.
One highlight is the chance to taste wines made from Nero di Troia, Gaglioppo, Coda di Volpe, and Bombino Bianco. These wines are chosen for their ability to reveal a place rather than follow a trend.
For example, the Nero di Troia from Cantina La Marchesa offers a rich, structured wine that reflects the unique terroir of Puglia, with its volcanic soils and warm climate. Meanwhile, a Gaglioppo from Librandi showcases the fresh acidity and herbal notes typical of Calabria, making it a delightful representation of the region.
These producers work with care and respect for their land, crafting wines that invite you to explore Southern Italy’s quieter, more intricate wine world.
Why Southern Italy’s Wines Matter to You
You might wonder why these lesser-known wines deserve your attention. The answer lies in their authenticity and diversity. Southern Italy’s indigenous grapes offer flavours and styles you won’t find elsewhere.
By exploring these wines, you support small producers who preserve local traditions and biodiversity. You also expand your palate and discover new food pairings and experiences.
For sommeliers and wine professionals, these wines provide exciting options to surprise and educate clients. For enthusiasts, they offer a fresh adventure beyond the usual choices.
Join the Journey on 19 May
The EU Sommelier Association’s event is a unique opportunity to taste wines that rarely make it to the table. It’s a chance to meet producers, learn about indigenous grapes, and enjoy wines that express their place with clarity and charm.
If you want to deepen your knowledge and experience Southern Italy’s wine culture, this tasting is for you. It’s not just about the wines but the stories they tell and the connections they create.
Don’t miss this invitation to explore a side of Italy that is unexpected, precise, and unmistakably Southern.
Ready to discover these hidden gems? Mark your calendar for 19 May and join us for a tasting that promises to open new doors in your wine journey.
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