MAREMINU IGP PUGLIA Maresco & Minutolo

The Grapes and Vineyard
Nestled among the highest elevations of the Valle d’Itria, the vineyards of Masseria Croce Piccola are set in pristine nature, surrounded by centuries-old oak trees and flourishing olive groves. These limestone-rich lands, characterised by a unique microclimate with temperature variations exceeding 12°C, are meticulously cultivated to preserve and enhance the indigenous Maresco and Minutolo grape varieties.

Winemaking Process
The grapes are hand-harvested at peak ripeness, ensuring the optimal balance between sugar content and total acidity. Once in the winery, they are swiftly destuffed and gently pressed immediately after harvest. The fermentation process takes place under controlled low temperatures (14–16°C) in stainless steel tanks, following an 18-hour maceration on the skins at 4–6°C.

The Wine
The delicate and refined aroma of Minutolo is perfectly balanced by the vibrant acidity and persistence of Maresco. This harmonious blend results in a wine of extraordinary freshness, distinctive character, and mineral complexity—an expression of the unique terroir of these lands.
An elegant, aromatic wine with remarkable drinkability, born from a rugged yet generous land.

TECHNICAL DATA

• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Puglia Bianco
• Grape Composition: 70% Maresco, 30% Minutolo (organic)
• Production Area: Masseria Croce Piccola
• Vineyard Altitude: 530 m a.s.l.
• Soil Composition: Limestone-rich with rocky fragments
• Planting Density: 2,500 vines per hectare
• Yield per Hectare: 75–80 quintals
• Training System: Guyot-trained espalier
• Alcoholic Fermentation: In stainless steel
• Malolactic Fermentation: Not carried out
• Ageing & Storage: Bottle-aged for 3–4 months; store upright and serve in a tasting balloon glass at 11–13°C

ANALYTICAL DATA

• Alcohol Content: 12.5% Vol.
• Total Acidity: 6.2 g/L
• pH: 3.38
• Dry Extract: 24.5 g/L

Masseria Croce Piccola is the lead farm of the ALBEALAND Project, an initiative dedicated to the preservation and development of traditional Apulian viticulture and winemaking. This supply chain agreement involves 12 wineries across Puglia, covering approximately 70 hectares cultivated with the region’s most ancient grape varieties, all grown using organic and/or eco-sustainable methods.