Martina Franca Wine Region

Martina Franca often called just Martina, is one of the oldest wine-growing districts in Italy. The region is unique as it is one of few regions producing white wines from southern Puglia as opposed to red wines that dominate the Puglia wine region. Verdeca and Bianco d’Alessano grapes are the predominant grape varieties in the Martina Franca region. The region still has ancient vineyards which have been present for centuries. If you have tried Locorotondo wines, you will find similarities with wines from Martina Franca, both the personality and grape composition. The region host an annual summer opera festival, the Festival Della Valle d’Itria, usually held between July and August.

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Where is the Martina Franca wine region?

Martina Franca wine region surrounds the town of Martina Franca in the Taranto Province of Apulia, Italy. The region is the second most populated area in Taranto. It lies in the Itria valley closer to the provinces of Bari and Brindisi in the southeastern extension of Italy which extends to Alberobello. The viticultural zone is located around 16km inland of the Adriatic coastal line in the east. The region is surrounded by the municipality of Alberobello, Ceglie Messapica, Cisternino, Crispano, Massafra, Mottola, Locorotondo, Ostuni, Villa Castelli, Grottaglie, and Noci. 

History of the Martina Franca wine region

The oldest vineyard in Italy is located in the Martina Franca wine region producing some of the best white wines in Apulia. Before 1861, the town of Martina Franca was a fully isolated walled town with 24 towers and four gates. The town opened itself into the outer world after the reunification of Italy. The region features several Vallonee caves which were used as shelter by Basilian monks and brigands. The Martina Franca wine region was created in 1969, way before the region appropriately planted vines. 

The terroir and geography of the Martina Franca wine region

Martina Franca wine region has a pleasant Mediterranean environment that is warm. The location is sunny, which aids with grape ripening. The soil is exceptionally rich, with a significant percentage of limestones. The annual average rainfall is roughly 632mm, with the majority of it falling during the winter. The average temperature in the region is around 15.3 degrees Celsius, which is perfect for viticulture. The huge temperature difference between the day and night is ideal for grapes, along with cool breezes from the Adriatic sea. The months of May and October are ideal for visiting the region because of the beautiful weather and nice temperature.

Popular grape varieties from the Martina Franca wine region

In the Martina Franca wine region, just two grape varietals are grown: Verdeca and Bianco d'Alessano. Wines make about 50-65% of the Verdeca, with the Bianco d'Alessano accounting for the remaining 35-50%. Other kinds grown in the region include Fiano, Bombino, and Malvasia Bianco, which can account for up to 5% of the blend. On the hilly slope with the southeast face, approximately 14 hectares of land are planted with vines.

Food to pair with Martina Franca wine 

Oysters

Oysters are a delicious seafood delicacy that is enjoyed around the world. They have a unique flavor and texture that make them an ideal dish for any occasion. Whether it's a romantic dinner for two or a large family gathering, oysters can be prepared in many different ways to please everyone's palate. From traditional recipes like Rockefeller and Casino to creative dishes like Oyster Tacos, there are endless possibilities when it comes to preparing oysters. Oysters are a delicacy that is enjoyed by many people. They are a good source of protein, zinc, and vitamin B12. Oysters can be eaten raw or cooked in different ways.

Fish soup

Fish soup is one of the most popular dishes around the world. It's a simple yet delicious dish with a lot of variations. From the classic French Bouillabaisse to Chinese Tom Yum, there are countless recipes for fish soup that you can try. Whether it's a light and healthy meal or a hearty and comforting dish, fish soup is sure to satisfy your taste buds. With its rich flavors and nutritious ingredients, it's no wonder why so many people enjoy this dish. So why not give it a try? You won't regret it!

White sauce pasta

White sauce pasta is a type of pasta dish cooked with white sauce, a milk-based sauce. The sauce has a creamy texture and is often made with butter, flour, and milk. White sauce pasta can be served as an appetizer or as the meal's main course. This meal can be made with several pasta shapes, including fettuccine, spaghetti, and rigatoni.

The white sauce pasta dish has been around in Italy since the 1600s. It was originally known as "pasta al burro," which translates to "pasta with butter." This meal gained popularity in the United States during the 1950s under the name "spaghetti and meatballs."

Places to visit in the Martina Franca wine region

Palazzo Ducale Martina Franca

The magnificence of Palazzo Ducale Martina Franca is certainly something not to be missed if you are in the Puglia region. On the ruins of Orsini castle, which stood on this site in the 1300s, the palace was created as a residential neighborhood. The Caracciolo family, a noble family, used this magnificent palace, which had 365 rooms. Andrea Carducci, a well-known architect, created the structure with the culture and aesthetic era of the time in mind. Palazzo Ducale also houses the city's town hall, which has some of its original furnishings.

Basilica of San Martino

Basilica of San Martino is the mother church of the city which is dedicated to Martin of Tours. The church was constructed between 1747 to 1785. Pope John Paul II elevated the dignity of the Pontifical minor basilica. The church has been designated a UNESCO heritage site since 2002. The oldest church still stands with an amazing bell tower from the 14th century. The building underwent several renovations over two and a half centuries. The majestic facade is 37 meters high on a semi-circular staircase. 

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Frequently asked questions about Martina Franca