Vinalia x Tenuta Viglione, Susumaniello

Founded in 1937, Tenuta Viglione is a family-owned estate nestled in the elevated terroirs of Puglia’s Gioia del Colle, near the historic Via Appia. Now led by third-generation Giovanni Zullo and his offspring, the organic vineyards are dedicated to native varieties like Primitivo, Susumaniello, Negroamaro, and Verdeca. With a commitment to sustainable practices and minimal intervention, the estate honors the integrity of both its grapes and land, and as such its wines have earned the prestigious Tre Bicchieri award from Gambero Rosso.

Puglia, the long and slender “heel of the boot,” boasts an ancient winegrowing heritage now experiencing a vibrant renaissance. Its scorching summers are softened by the nearby Adriatic Sea and Gulf of Taranto, with Greek cultural influences evident in its landscape. The region's iconic white trulli homes in Alberobello evoke a Mediterranean charm reminiscent of Santorini. In addition to its rich culinary traditions, Puglia celebrates its numerous local grape varieties, including Primitivo, Susumaniello, and Verdeca.

In addition to being eminently fun to say aloud, the name Susumaniello is theorized to derive from somarello or “donkey.” As a donkey can carry a heavy pack, so too can the Susumaniello vine, whose crop can manage a high yield. While Susumaniello often results in rich, powerful red wines, the variety is a natural offspring of Garganega, the famous white grape responsible for some of Italy’s top white wines further north in Soave. Susumaniello, rather is cultivated almost exclusively in Puglia, delivering brambly wines laden with raisinated berry flavors.