Masseria Altemura is a modern yet deeply rooted estate in Puglia, bringing together the region’s ancient traditions with contemporary winemaking precision. The estate is located in the heart of the Salento peninsula, between the Adriatic and Ionian seas, in a zone long celebrated for its olive groves, sun-drenched vineyards, and limestone soils. The property itself is centred on a restored 16th-century masseria (fortified farmhouse), which now serves as both the architectural and symbolic heart of the estate.
Founded in the late 1990s and part of the Zonin family’s extensive wine group, Masseria Altemura was created with a vision of showcasing Puglia’s potential for producing wines of character, elegance, and international appeal. The estate encompasses over 270 hectares, with around 130 under vine, planted to both indigenous and international varieties. Key among these are Primitivo and Negroamaro, Puglia’s signature grapes, alongside Fiano, Aglianico, and selected international cultivars that thrive in the Mediterranean climate.
The terroir is defined by bright white limestone soils, which reflect sunlight and help maintain freshness in the grapes, as well as cooling breezes from the surrounding seas. These natural advantages temper the region’s intense summer heat, allowing for wines with ripeness and body balanced by acidity and minerality. Sustainability is central to the estate’s philosophy, with careful vineyard management, reduced chemical input, and respect for the natural environment guiding both viticulture and cellar practices.
In the winery, Masseria Altemura blends traditional techniques with modern technology to craft wines that emphasise fruit purity and regional identity. Their range spans from approachable, fruit-forward expressions to more structured and ageworthy bottlings that highlight the depth Puglia can offer. Flagship wines like Sasseo (a Primitivo) and Altemura (a Negroamaro) have gained international recognition for their balance of power and finesse.
Masseria Altemura stands as a symbol of the new Puglia: a region capable of producing wines that honour its long viticultural history while embracing a refined, contemporary style. By combining a historic masseria, exceptional terroir, and a clear focus on quality, the estate has positioned itself as one of the leading names in southern Italian wine.