Consorzio Produttori Vini di Manduria: The Masters of Primitivo
A Century of Cooperation
The story began in 1928, when a small group of local farmers took over an old production facility to create the "Federazione Vini." Their mission was clear: to protect and promote the Primitivo grape. By 1932, it evolved into the Consorzio Produttori Vini, an efficient hub for the region's finest grapes.
Today, as we move through 2026, the Consorzio represents 400 small-scale "artisans of wine," known as the Maestri in Primitivo. They manage 900 hectares of vineyards, more than half of which are still cultivated using the ancient Alberello Pugliese (bush vine) system.
Innovation and Sustainability
The winery doesn't just look back; it looks forward. Collaborations with leading universities and the CNR focus on recovering optimal clones and experimenting with cutting-edge vinification techniques.
In 2018, it was among the first nine Italian wineries to receive the Equalitas Certification, an international standard that guarantees sustainability from the vineyard to the bottle, protecting both the environment and the local community.
Iconic Labels
Producing over 700,000 bottles annually, the Consorzio's portfolio includes some of Puglia's most prestigious names:
- LIRICA: A benchmark Primitivo di Manduria DOP, known for its structure and elegance.
- MADRIGALE: The prestigious Primitivo di Manduria DOCG Dolce Naturale, a naturally sweet masterpiece.
The Museum of Primitivo Wine Civilization
Housed in the oldest part of the winery is the Museum of Primitivo Wine Civilization. This ethnographic treasure tells the story of Manduria through an underground journey into 19th-century cisterns.
Walking through these hypogeum spaces, visitors can see authentic artifacts of rural life, offering a profound look at how wine has shaped the identity of this territory for centuries.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1928 (as Federazione Vini) / 1932 (as Consorzio) |
| Members | 400 Maestri in Primitivo |
| Vineyard Area | 900 hectares (50%+ Alberello Pugliese) |
| Annual Production | 700,000+ bottles |
| Certification | Equalitas Sustainability Certification (since 2018) |
| Signature Wines | LIRICA (Primitivo di Manduria DOP), MADRIGALE (DOCG Dolce Naturale) |
Insider Tip: The Museum of Primitivo Wine Civilization is a must-see for any wine lover visiting Manduria. Allow at least 45 minutes for the underground tour to fully appreciate the 19th-century cisterns and the authentic artifacts of rural life. Guided tastings of LIRICA and MADRIGALE can be arranged following the museum visit.
Experience the legend of Primitivo
Visit the museum and taste the history of Manduria with us. Discover the authentic flavors of Primitivo through the expertise of the Maestri in Primitivo.
CONTACT US TO BOOK YOUR PRIVATE TOUR