Nero di Troia Orme Puglia IGT 2018 – Massimo Leone

Nero di Troia Orme marks the beginning of a shared journey—mine and Robert’s. It may well have been the first wine we tasted together. We were in Bristol when he introduced it to me, saying, “With this, you can never go wrong.”

I fell in love, not just with the wine but with the grape variety itself. Too often overshadowed by Primitivo and Negroamaro, Nero di Troia holds its ground as a truly exceptional wine. It’s a hidden gem, waiting to shine in the spotlight it so richly deserves.

For me, Nero di Troia isn’t just a wine—it’s a connection to a cherished memory and a reminder of its unique potential. A great wine, a great grape! Don’t just take my word for it, try it for yourself and see.

Massimo Leone

Massimo Leone began its journey in 2007 in the heart of the Tavoliere delle Puglie. A passionate farmer established the winery to revive and honour the deep connection between history and land. With this vision, native grape varieties were planted, continuing the traditions set by the ancient Greeks thousands of years ago. The vineyards thrive on light-coloured, rocky soil, making the espalier the only suitable training system.
The winery prioritises quality at every stage. Irrigation is carefully managed, pruning and rasping are meticulous, and yields per hectare are kept low. Grapes are hand-harvested at their optimal balance of sugars and acids. Located near the cellar, the vines cultivate exceptional varieties such as Fiano, Falanghina, Bombino, Primitivo, Aglianico and Nero di Troia.

La cantina embraces traditional and sustainable farming methods. Insecticides are avoided, relying instead on sulfur and copper, which effectively prevent mildew and powdery mildew due to Puglia’s favourable climate. To enrich the soil naturally, the winery plants fava beans in the vineyards. This ancient Roman agricultural practice significantly enhances soil nutrients and structure while maintaining sustainability.

Nero di Troia

Nero di Troia is one of Puglia’s oldest and most intriguing grape varieties. Traditionally used in blends, it has recently gained recognition for its standalone potential. According to legend, the grape may have originated from the ancient Greek town of Troy, brought to Puglia by Diomedes, King of Argo, after the Trojan War.

As the third most important native black grape of Puglia, after Negroamaro and Primitivo, Nero di Troia shines in the provinces of Foggia and northern Bari. While Negroamaro dominates Salento and Primitivo thrives in Taranto, Nero di Troia flourishes in its unique terroir, contributing to the diversity of Puglia’s viticulture.
This grape has also been pivotal in elevating the Castel del Monte region. The renewed interest in Nero di Troia has drawn attention to other lesser-known native varieties like Bombino Bianco and Bombino Nero, which also produce delightful wines. Its distinctive character and versatility make it a symbol of Puglia’s rich winemaking heritage.