Impigno Wine: the White Gem of Ostuni

Among Puglia’s white wines there is a rare and fascinating grape, deeply tied to the white city of Ostuni: Impigno. Little known outside Puglia, it is a small gem that deserves to be rediscovered.

An ancient native grape

Impigno is a native and very old white grape variety, grown above all in the province of Brindisi. According to tradition, its name comes from the grower who first introduced it to the Ostuni area in the early twentieth century. It is a vigorous, hardy variety that ripens around mid-September and adapts well to the region’s varied soils.

Where it comes from: Ostuni DOC

Impigno is the star of the Ostuni DOC white, where it makes up between 50 and 85% of the blend, paired with Francavidda (15 to 50%) and sometimes small amounts of Bianco d’Alessano and Verdeca. Rarely vinified on its own — it would turn out too light — it is at its best in the classic blend of the appellation.

The character of the wine

Wines with a strong presence of Impigno have a pale straw colour and a delicate yet aromatic profile: notes of peach and citrus come through, with hints of aromatic herbs and acacia blossom. These are fresh, easy-drinking, savoury whites, made for the everyday table rather than for long ageing.

Food pairings

Its freshness makes it perfect as an aperitif and alongside seafood dishes: raw fish, fried fish, pasta with fish, and seasonal vegetables. It is also excellent with fresh cheeses and the lighter preparations of Puglian cuisine.

Want to see where it fits in the regional picture? Read our guide to the best Puglian wines.

At Enoteca59 in Peschici we love offering labels like this one, off the beaten track: come and visit us and let us guide you on a little journey through the native white wines of Puglia.