Verdeca is a white grape variety traditionally associated with Puglia, where it has been cultivated for centuries. Its origins have not been definitively established, but the variety has been documented since at least the 17th century, when it was also known as Verdeca di Gravina. The name refers to the characteristic green-yellow colour of the grapes, and the variety is also officially known by the synonym Pampanuto.
From an ampelographic point of view, it has medium-sized leaves, generally pentagonal, trilobed or quinquelobed, with a petiole sinus varying from open to moderately wide. The bunch is medium-sized, conical in shape, often with one or two wings; the berries are spherical, of medium size, with a pruinose skin and a yellowish-green hue. Verdeca is particularly widespread in the Itria Valley and in the provinces of Bari, Brindisi and Taranto, with a long-standing presence in the areas of Locorotondo, Martina Franca, Cisternino, Alberobello, Crispiano and Gravina. In many traditional blends, it is combined with Bianco d’Alessano.
The wine displays a straw-yellow colour with greenish highlights, and aromas of white flowers, citrus fruits, aromatic herbs and exotic fruits. On the palate, it is fresh, savoury and lively, with a generally light to medium body, and a clean, pleasant finish. It is best enjoyed young, though the more structured versions can develop greater complexity with moderate ageing. Its natural acidity also makes it well-suited to the production of sparkling wines.
