The Puglia region of Italy is a hidden gem in the world of wine, celebrated for its esoteric offerings and unique native grape varieties. While its wines have gained recognition in recent years, many wine enthusiasts and casual drinkers may still be unaware of the quality and diversity of wines produced there. Among its most distinguished grapes is Primitivo, one of Italy’s top red grape varieties, known for its bold flavors and robust character.
In Gioia del Colle, a DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata or Controlled Designation of Origin) within the Puglia wine region, Polvanera stands out as one of the leading winemakers, recognized for its significant role in revitalizing the Primitivo grape. The winery is also distinguished by its sustainable approach, with production being entirely organic and favoring traditional methods.
Led by owner and oenologist Filippo Cassano, Polvanera Winery honors the winemaking tradition of Primitivo di Gioia del Colle PDO, showcasing its flagship product, Polvanera 17—an intense yet elegant wine that is great for pairing with meats and cheeses. Many may not realize that this exceptional wine is available in the Philippines, even though Filipinos have long enjoyed Italian wines—typically dominated by more popular grape varieties. If you’re looking for a wine that elevates festive occasions and everyday meals, explore this selection during your next wine shopping trip.
Polvanera 17, made exclusively from Primitivo grapes sourced from the Montevella vineyard, beautifully reflects its terroir, characterized by mineral-rich karst soil, an altitude of over 400 meters, and significant temperature fluctuations with warm, breezy days and cool nights. The grapes undergo a meticulous winemaking process that begins with a four-week maceration after a manual harvest, followed by a total aging period of 36 months, divided between stainless steel and bottle. This careful process lends the wine its intense purple-red color, accompanied by a rich bouquet of berries, delicate floral nuances, and hints of licorice and graphite. Its harmonious balance makes the wine enjoyable to savor immediately while also allowing it to age gracefully for five to six years.
Best served at a temperature of 18°C, the wine showcases a powerful and elegant palate, complemented by smooth tannins, underlying minerality, and ample acidity. Its long, endless finish harmonizes beautifully with the aromatic notes. Despite its complex structure and notable alcohol content of 16.5%, this wine remains surprisingly light, making it an excellent choice for both seasoned connoisseurs and new wine drinkers.
Polvanera 17 is making its mark on tables worldwide, cherished by wine lovers, and recognized on the international wine stage for consistently earning prestigious accolades. The exceptional wine has repeatedly won the illustrious Tre Bicchieri from Gambero Rosso, establishing itself as a benchmark in the Apulian and Italian wine scenes. In addition, it has received five Grappoli from the Bibenda 2024 guide—one of the most-coveted awards in the Italian wine community—and has garnered high scores from major wine guides, including Doctor Wine and Guida Oro Veronelli.
The unique terroir of Polvanera’s vineyards, combined with a distinctive wine cellar carved into limestone rock, creates an ideal environment for aging wines at a constant temperature, resulting in exceptional quality wines. Under Filippo Cassano’s expert guidance, the winery boasts an impressive portfolio, featuring standout varieties like the versatile Polvanera 14 and the seductive Polvanera 16. Other highlights include the fragrant, medium-bodied Aglianico, along with the Macchia di Gatto and Maresco Brut sparkling wines, both crafted using the Charmat method.
Learn more about Polvanera Winery at cantinepolvanera.it and follow them on Instagram at @polvaneraofficial. For inquiries, connect with the winery at +39 080758900 or +39 3887573320, or email them at [email protected].
Follow DrinkManila on Facebook and Instagram for all the latest sips and tips!
