Falanghina Puglia IGT 2023

Falanghina Puglia IGT 2023 / Masseria Altemura / Apulia

White wine from Italy

In the sun-drenched heart of Salento, between the Ionian and Adriatic coasts, Masseria Altemura stands as a testament to timeless Mediterranean character and forward-looking sustainability. This historic estate is defined by a singular terroir: radiant light, persistent sea breezes, and soils rich in white limestone and vibrant red clay lend the vineyards their distinctive voice. Situated within the prestigious Primitivo di Manduria DOC, near the village of Torre Santa Susanna, the property comprises a 17th-century farmhouse, a state-of-the-art winery built on the principles of green architecture, and the surrounding vines that thrive under its care.

Falanghina, one of Italy’s oldest white grape varieties, boasts a heritage that dates back to Roman times, when it formed part of the legendary Falernum wine. Preserved through centuries by monastic cultivation and revived during the Renaissance, it has since found a natural home in Apulia, where it now stands as a symbol of fresh, aromatic white wines with a distinctly Mediterranean character.

At Masseria Altemura, the vines thrive in a fine layer of red earth resting atop limestone. Generous leaf canopies shield the grapes from over-ripening and sunburn, while precise water management during the ripening phase ensures balanced, crisp fruit. This attentive viticulture lays the foundation for a wine defined by its harmony of minerality and acidity.

Harvested at peak ripeness, the grapes are gently pressed using pneumatic systems. The must undergoes fermentation in stainless steel tanks over seven to ten days at a controlled temperature of 18 °C, followed by two to three months of maturation on fine lees. A final period of bottle ageing imparts further depth and refinement.

Falanghina Puglia IGT 2023 reveals itself in a pale straw yellow with delicate greenish highlights. On the nose, it opens with vibrant citrus notes of lemon and grapefruit, complemented by floral hints of white blossoms such as jasmine. Ripe stone fruits – apricot and peach – round out the bouquet with subtle sweetness. On the palate, the wine is dry and medium-bodied, with a lively freshness shaped by its maritime location. A fine mineral edge and bright acidity lend structure and finesse, while the 13.5% alcohol is seamlessly integrated.

Served at 8 to 10 °C, Falanghina unfolds its full potential as a versatile companion at the table. It pairs beautifully with grilled seafood – prawns, squid, scallops – and delicate fish dishes such as sea bream, sole or sea bass. Steamed mussels with white wine and herbs are elevated by the wine’s saline and mineral nuances. Mediterranean antipasti, pasta with herbs or citrus, creamy risottos and subtly seasoned white meats all find a natural partner in its aromatic profile. Fresh salads, grilled vegetables and plant-based dishes benefit from its brightness and clarity. Soft cheeses like mozzarella, burrata, ricotta and goat’s cheese, as well as mild, aged varieties such as young Provolone or Pecorino, complete the culinary harmony.

General properties

• Vintage: 2023
• Ageing: Dry
• Country: Italy
• Region: Apulia
• Volume: 0,75 litres

Detailed properties

• Producer and bottler: Masseria Altemura - Contrada Palombara sp 69 - 72028 Torre Santa Susanna (Brindisi) - Italia - +39 0831 740485
• Quality Designation: Indicazione Geografica Tipica (IGT) Salento.
• Grape: 100% Falanghina.
• Vinification and maturation: The grapes are harvested at peak ripeness and gently processed using pneumatic presses. The resulting must undergoes temperature-controlled fermentation over seven to ten days in stainless steel tanks at 18 °C. The young wine is then matured on fine lees for two to three months, enhancing its structure and aromatic depth. Final refinement takes place in the bottle, allowing the flavour profile to harmonise fully.
• Scent: The wine reveals a vibrant aromatic profile, shaped by delicate citrus notes such as lemon and grapefruit. Fresh white blossoms, notably jasmine, lend an elegant floral nuance to the bouquet. Ripe stone fruits like apricot and peach complete the nose with a subtle touch of sweet fruitiness.
• Taste: This dry, medium-bodied wine impresses with its finely balanced interplay of vibrant acidity and subtle mineral spice. Its geographical position between the Ionian and Adriatic Seas imparts a distinctive saline freshness, lending the wine a particularly lively and engaging character. The alcohol content of 13.5% is seamlessly integrated, remaining discreet on the palate.
• Colour: Pale straw yellow with delicate greenish highlights.
• Alcohol content: 13,5 % Vol.
• Residual sugar: 1,8 g/l
• Acidity: 5,7 g/l
• Closure type: Natural cork.
• Serving suggestion: Falanghina proves to be an excellent companion to a wide range of dishes. Its aromatic profile pairs beautifully with antipasti, pasta and risotto, as well as grilled seafood, fish and shellfish. White meats and delicately prepared pork dishes also complement its character. In addition, it matches wonderfully with fresh salads, vegetable-based recipes and plant-forward cuisine. Soft cheeses and mild, matured varieties provide a fitting conclusion to this harmonious culinary ensemble.
• Recommended serving temperature: Between 8 and 10°C.
• Allergen: Contains sulphites.
• EAN (bottle): 8002235028134
• Scope of supply: 1 disposable bottle of wine 0.75 litres.

Grape variety

FALANGHINA

Falanghina is a white grape variety predominantly cultivated in southern Italy, renowned for its high-quality wines. It is considered one of Italy's oldest grape varieties, with origins tracing back to ancient Roman times. The name "Falanghina" likely derives from the Latin words "falangae" or "phalangae," which refer to stakes or supports used in viticulture. In Roman antiquity, Falanghina was a key component of the wine Falernum, produced in Campania and celebrated as a symbol of luxury. After the fall of the Roman Empire, the tradition of cultivating Falanghina endured in Campania, particularly thanks to monasteries that preserved viticultural practices. During the Renaissance, wine production experienced a revival, and Falanghina once again gained appreciation. In the 20th century, the grape variety grew in popularity and was also planted in Apulia, where it adapted well to the local climate. Today, Falanghina is a significant part of viticulture in Apulia, contributing to the region's wine identity. Modern cultivation techniques have further enhanced the quality of Falanghina wines, leading to increasing recognition both in Italy and internationally. The leaves of the Falanghina vine are medium to large, five-lobed, and deeply cut. The grapes are medium-sized, cylindrical to conical, and the berries have a thin but robust skin. They are yellowish to golden yellow and possess a high sugar content with moderate acidity. Harvesting in Apulia typically occurs between late September and early October. In Apulia, Falanghina is often grown using traditional systems like pergola or modern Guyot training, which improve fruit quality. The wines are fresh, aromatic, with lively acidity and balanced minerality. They reflect the Mediterranean climate and the mineral-rich soils of the region, offering a versatile flavour profile suitable for everyday enjoyment and special occasions. Apulian Falanghina wines are an excellent example of the diversity and quality this grape variety can offer.

Bulk discount:

• 3 x Falanghina Puglia IGT 2023
• 6 x Falanghina Puglia IGT 2023