Ottavianello: A Black Grape Variety from Puglia
Written by Redazione di vinoway | Published in curiosity, news 
Ottavianello is a black grape variety primarily cultivated in Puglia, particularly in the province of Brindisi. Known in France as Cinsault, it is highly valued for producing high-quality red and rosé wines. This grape represents one of the most authentic expressions of Puglia’s winemaking heritage and is gaining increasing interest among wine enthusiasts and producers.
Origins and Distribution
The name Ottavianello is attributed to the Marquis of Bugnano, who is believed to have introduced it to Salento from the town of Ottaviano, in the province of Naples, in the late 19th century. Since then, its cultivation has been concentrated mainly in the area of San Vito dei Normanni. Today, it is also found in other parts of Puglia and is included in the Ostuni Ottavianello DOC designation, as well as in the Murgia, Tarantino, Salento, and Valle d’Itria IGP classifications.
Grape Characteristics
From an ampelographic perspective, Ottavianello features medium-sized, pentagonal, five-lobed leaves. The grape cluster is compact and pyramid-shaped, often with one or two wings, while the berries are ellipsoidal, violet-colored, and covered with a pruinose skin. These characteristics make it particularly suitable for producing elegant and refined wines.
Versatility
Thanks to its versatility, Ottavianello can be vinified as a single-varietal wine or blended with other native Puglian grape varieties.
Designations and Food Pairings
It is the main grape variety in the Ostuni Ottavianello DOC, where it must constitute at least 85% of the blend, with possible additions of Negroamaro, Malvasia Nera di Brindisi, or Malvasia Nera di Lecce. In terms of food pairings, Ottavianello pairs perfectly with meat-based pasta dishes, local cured meats such as Martina Franca and Puglian sausage, as well as appetizers, soups, and roasted lamb.
Curiosities and Future Prospects
Despite its Italian origins, Ottavianello is genetically similar to the French Cinsault, which is used in southern France as a minor component in the production of the renowned AOC Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine. Today, interest in this grape variety is growing among both local producers and consumers, thanks to its ability to fully express the Puglian terroir. Its rediscovery represents an opportunity for regional viticulture, further solidifying Puglia’s role as one of Italy’s most dynamic wine regions.
Among the wineries that have invested in its promotion, Carvinea stands out as a leading name in Puglian winemaking. Located in the heart of Puglia, the winery is known for its production philosophy that blends tradition with innovation. Carvinea has enhanced the qualities of this grape through advanced winemaking techniques aimed at showcasing the territory. Their wines made from Ottavianello include Otto Rosso, Ottorosa, and Ottorosè Brut, which have been rated by Vinoway Italia with scores of 5 Way Star 96/100, 5 Way 93/100, and 5 Way Star 97/100, respectively.
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