Ottavianello: Puglia’s Hidden Gem Offering Elegant Red Wines

Ottavianello is a red grape variety of French origin, known as Cinsault in France. It was brought to Puglia at the end of the 19th century and has primarily established itself in the Brindisi province, especially in the Ostuni area, where it is vinified in purity under the Ostuni Ottavianello DOC designation. While it has traditionally been used in blends with local varieties like Negroamaro and Malvasia Nera, Ottavianello is increasingly recognized for its distinctive qualities when vinified alone, offering elegant and versatile wines.

The Basics

• Vineyard area: About 50 hectares in Italy, mainly in the Brindisi province.
• Main denominations: Ostuni Ottavianello DOC (minimum 85% Ottavianello).
• Characteristics: Elegant wines with notes of red fruit, flowers, sweet spices, and soft tannins.

Production and Winemaking Areas

Ottavianello thrives in the Ostuni area of Puglia, particularly in clayey, well-drained soils. The grape’s resilience to heat and ability to tolerate intense sun exposure make it well-suited to the Mediterranean climate. Traditionally used in blends, Ottavianello has recently gained recognition for its pure versions, offering lighter, fresher wines with enough structure for aging.

Food Pairings

Ottavianello wines pair beautifully with roasted or grilled white meats, and are perfect with local dishes such as orecchiette al ragù or pork chops. As for cheeses, they match well with Caciocavallo Podolico and Canestrato Pugliese, or even international varieties like Tomme de Savoie and semi-mature Manchego, which enhance the wine’s delicate spicy notes.

Price

Prices for Ottavianello wines generally start around 15-20 euros for young, fresh versions. A notable example is the Tenute Rubino Lamo Ottavianello. For more refined expressions, like the Sumaré Riserva, prices can rise to 40-50 euros, offering significant aging potential and aromatic complexity.