Matera

"Matera" is a Protected Designation of Origin that identifies different types of wine: Red, Primitivo (also Passito), Rosato, Moro (also Riserva), Greco, Bianco (also Passito), Spumante and Spumante rosé.

Grapes

From the point of view of production, it is appropriate to distinguish the blend used in the different types. For the Rosso, at least 60% Sangiovese grapes are used, together with 30% Primitivo. Primitivo, on the other hand, represents the source of 90% of the grapes for the production of the homonymous single-variety wine, also in the Passito, Rosato and Spumante rosé variants. The same applies to Greco, which has a share of 85% of the corresponding vine. In the Moro wines, on the other hand, we find 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Primitivo and 10% Merlot. Malvasia bianca di Basilicata, on the other hand, is the predominant grape variety in Bianco, Bianco passito and Spumante, with at least 85% of the total. In all productions, to complete the missing quotas and no more than the same, the use of other similar grape varieties is allowed, as long as they are suitable for cultivation in Basilicata.

Physicochemical and Organoleptic properties

Despite the peculiarities that each type has, and that are described in detail in the specification, Matera wines have several features in common. Starting from the excellent structure, combined with a normal acidity and a remarkable gustatory balance. The appearance is ruby red, cherry or straw yellow, depending on the production. These shades are further diversified according to the period of aging. All the wines of the denomination, however, release fruity and floral aromas.

Grape production area

The production area, which coincides with the province of Matera, is located in the south-western part of Basilicata and is characterised by the presence of hills and the coast. The climate is Mediterranean.

Specificity and historical notes

The Greek origin of Matera's viticulture and its remarkable development already in very ancient times is testified by the Tables of Heraclea, an ancient cadastral document of the VII century B.C.