I’m thrilled to share some exciting news. My dream of planting vines and making wine is finally beginning to take shape in Puglia, Italy. Preparations are underway to transform a parcel of land outside San Vito dei Normanni in Puglia, Italy into a vineyard. I’m taking things step by step to see how everything develops. One section—about 1,000 square meters (0.1 hectare, or roughly 0.247 acres)—has already undergone the initial work needed for grape cultivation. As of early November, the following tasks have been completed:
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Removal of dead olive trees
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Breaking and loosening the rock beneath the topsoil
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Tilling and leveling the topsoil
The soil—red clay rich in iron—has been evaluated as excellent for growing grapes. The plan is to plant a lesser-known Puglian varietal: Susumaniello. After decades in the shadow of Primitivo and Negroamaro, this ancient grape is experiencing a well-deserved resurgence. Choosing Susumaniello felt especially meaningful, as its “rebirth” mirrors the birth of my own vineyard.
Rootstocks will be ordered in December, with vines planted in early January. Check back here for regular updates on the project.
