2025 Puglia Pop Merletto

EXCLUSIVE OFFER: - EXPECTED END OF JULY 2026

The 2025 Puglia Pop Merletto is an exceptional white wine from the Valle d'Itria in Puglia, made from 100% Maresco, an extremely rare indigenous grape variety found exclusively in this part of Southern Italy. With an annual production of only about 3,000 bottles, Merletto is one of the most exclusive white wines from Puglia. The wine combines Mediterranean freshness, refined minerality, and a modern, elegant style. The wine is the newest addition to the Puglia Pop range and will make its debut around mid-July 2026.

Puglia Pop

Puglia Pop is a contemporary wine project that presents Puglia's rich wine tradition in a modern way. The winery focuses on authentic, local grape varieties that are hardly known outside the region, yet tell a unique story about their origins. Modern winemaking techniques go hand in hand with respect for terroir and biodiversity. The striking bottle design is also inspired by traditional Puglian lace and serves as a contemporary tribute to the regional heritage.

For more information about Puglia Pop, please refer to the Winery tab.

The Maresco grape

Merletto is made from 100% Maresco, an ancient indigenous grape variety grown exclusively in the Valle d'Itria. The vineyards are situated at approximately 400 to 450 meters above sea level on calcareous soils with an average clay content. Thanks to the warm days and cool nights, the grapes retain their fresh acidity and develop a remarkably refined aromatic profile.

Maresco is one of the rarest grape varieties in Italy. The annual production of Merletto amounts to only about 3,000 bottles, making this wine available in very limited quantities.

Vinification

The grapes are harvested entirely by hand in the early morning to preserve maximum freshness. After gentle pressing, temperature-controlled fermentation follows in stainless steel tanks. Subsequently, the wine ages on the fine lees, creating extra texture without losing the vibrant fruit expression and tension.

Scent, taste and character

Merletto presents a refined bouquet of exotic fruit, ripe citrus, and white flowers. Beneath this lie subtle Mediterranean spicy notes that beautifully underscore the wine's origin.

The taste is crisp, lively, and mineral. The fresh acidity provides an energetic structure, while the calcareous soils impart a subtle briny character. Flavors of citrus, white stone fruit, and tropical fruit are supported by an elegant texture and a long, clean finish in which freshness and minerality remain perfectly balanced.

A new perspective on Puglia

Merletto demonstrates that Puglia has much more to offer than powerful red wines. This elegant white wine combines Mediterranean ripeness with striking freshness and a pronounced terroir expression. Thanks to the use of the rare Maresco grape and extremely limited production, Merletto is a special discovery for lovers of authentic Italian wines.

Drinking window and food and wine pairings

The 2025 Puglia Pop Merletto drinks best in its youth, between 2026 and 2029.

Preferably serve the wine at 8 to 10°C.

This crisp white wine pairs excellently with oysters, raw shellfish, ceviche, fish carpaccio, sushi, grilled white fish, fresh salads, soft cheeses, and light Mediterranean dishes.