Manduria, in the southern part of Puglia, is the heartland of Primitivo, the deep, sun-soaked red that made the area famous. Terra Rossa – Le Radici del Primitivo invites you to go beyond the glass and meet the land, the plants and the people behind it. It is a full day, relaxed and curious, built around slow discovery.
A Day Rooted in the Red Earth
Every great wine begins underfoot. Here the iron-rich red soil is the starting point of the story, and the day unfolds like a gentle journey from ground to glass.
The programme mixes guided visits, hands-on workshops, screenings and tastings. You are never rushed from one stop to the next. There is time to wander, ask questions and linger.
Garden Paths and Turtle Encounters
Few wine events lead you through a botanical garden. This one does, with a guide who explains the Mediterranean plants that shape the local landscape.
Nearby is the turtle centre, a surprise that delights children and adults alike. Seeing the animals up close adds a gentle, nature-minded note to a day dedicated to the land.
- Guided walks through the botanical garden among native plants
- A visit to the turtle centre, a quiet highlight for families
- Workshops that invite you to take part, not just watch
- Time to chat with local guides and producers
Primitivo on the Big Screen
One of the most distinctive moments is the screening of historical footage about Primitivo. Old images of harvests and cellar life bring past generations of growers back into view.
Watching them makes the tasting that follows feel more meaningful. You understand how much work and tradition sit inside each bottle.
Tasting What the Land Gives
The finale is the food and wine tasting. Expect bold, velvety Primitivo alongside regional bites, the kind of simple, honest flavours that suit this wine best.
The mood is convivial, whether you come as a couple, with friends, with children or on your own. Strangers end up sharing a table and talking about what they have just seen.
Tips for Making the Most of It
- Wear comfortable shoes and a hat, as much of the day is outdoors
- Bring water and sunscreen if you visit in the warmer months
- Arrive early to enjoy the garden walk without hurrying
- Plan a quiet evening afterwards, since Primitivo has a generous character
Make a day of Manduria itself. Its historic centre and the ancient Messapian walls are close by, and the Ionian beaches around Campomarino and San Pietro in Bevagna are a short drive away. Autumn, around harvest time, is a lovely season to explore these vineyards.