Italy’s sun-drenched Puglia region is making a name for itself in Asia’s vibrant wine scene. Once overshadowed by Tuscany and Piedmont, this fertile area of southern Italy is now getting the attention of wine lovers in Hong Kong, with its bold reds, crisp whites and exceptional rosé wines. At the forefront of this movement is Tenuta Viglione. This family-run winery is dedicated to producing high-quality organic Italian wine that embodies the essence of Puglia’s rich winemaking heritage.
About these Italian wines
Founded in 1937, Tenuta Viglione is located in the Gioia del Colle PDO, a prime winemaking area known for its limestone-rich soil and high-altitude vineyards. Spanning 160 hectares on the Murge karst plateau, the estate benefits from cool breezes and optimal diurnal temperature shifts. The result? Wines with remarkable acidity, minerality and depth.
Since 1987, the winery has been at the forefront of organic winemaking. It embraces a philosophy rooted in sustainability, respect for the land and centuries-old farming traditions.
Unlike many producers chasing international trends, Tenuta Viglione focuses exclusively on indigenous grape varieties. This conscious decision reflects a commitment to authenticity. The winery champions local grapes like Primitivo, Negroamaro, Nero di Troia, Susumaniello, and Verdeca, crafting Italian wines that truly reflect Puglia’s terroir.
Growing popularity of these organic wines in Hong Kong
Puglia’s wines have been steadily gaining traction in Asia. This is particularly true in Hong Kong and Thailand, where consumers are increasingly drawn to organic, terroir-driven wines with character and history. Just a decade ago, Pugliese wines were a rarity on Asian wine lists. Today, the region is emerging as a sought-after destination for wine lovers eager to explore new flavors.
Among Tenuta Viglione’s standout offerings is its Primitivo, a bold and velvety red with rich blackberry and spice notes. There’s also Nero di Troia, a structured yet elegant wine with aromas of dark cherry and violets. For those who prefer white wines, Verdeca offers a fresh, crisp profile with hints of citrus and peach – perfect for pairing with Hong Kong’s renowned seafood cuisine. Meanwhile, Pugliese rose wine are becoming favorites for warm evenings and a pre-dinner aperitivo.
Putting Puglia on the map
The growing appreciation for Puglia’s wines reflects a broader trend in Asia; one that prioritises heritage, craftsmanship and lesser-known regions over mass-market labels. With celebrities like Madonna, Helen Mirren, Meryl Streep and Stanley Tucci spotlighting the region in recent years, Puglia is firmly on the map. It’s not just a travel hotspot, either, but a rising star in the global wine industry.
As Hong Kong’s wine culture continues to evolve, Tenuta Viglione is poised to introduce more Italian wine lovers to the beauty and authenticity of Puglia. Whether you’re sipping a bold Nero di Troia or a crisp Verdeca, each glass tells a story of tradition, passion, and an unwavering dedication to quality.
For more information and to find local stockists of this Italian wine in Hong Kong, visit Tenuta Viglione’s website.
