Nero di Troia “Il Nerone” 2018 – Cantina La Marchesa

Nero di Troia “Il Nerone” is Cantina La Marchesa’s signature red; a wine that truly reflects a legacy of craftsmanship.
This wine doesn’t rush. It invites you to sit, to listen, and to discover layers of structure, freshness, and depth.
A bold yet elegant choice — made for those who know that true character is worth waiting for.

It is named in honour of Sergio’s uncle, Gino, a powerful landowner who passed down his passion for viticulture. Loved and feared in equal measure for his gruff nature, he earned the nickname “Nerone,” after the Roman emperor.
The label features “La Quercia di Santajusta,” a legendary oak tree that still stands in the Fontanelle district, where Cantina La Marchesa is located.

Cantina La Marchesa

Cantina La Marchesa was founded 10 years ago by Marika and Sergio, two passionate wine lovers who turned their dream into reality. Located in Lucera, in northern Puglia, the winery oversees 14 hectares of vineyards situated just 300 metres from the cellar. This close proximity allows for a fast, gentle harvest that protects the aromatic integrity of the grapes.
The winery is deeply rooted in tradition and works exclusively with native Puglian varieties such as Nero di Troia and Bombino Bianco. Every step of the production is carried out by hand, by skilled and experienced workers who share the same values.

In spring, excess leaves are carefully removed to let the warm southern sun ripen the fruit. Later, the vines are pruned to leave only the best clusters, ensuring quality over quantity.

Marika and Sergio strongly believe that great wine starts in the vineyard. From growing the grapes to bottling the wine, they personally oversee every stage of the process. At Cantina La Marchesa, passion and hard work are at the heart of every bottle.

Nero di Troia

Nero di Troia is one of the oldest grape varieties native to Puglia.
Historically used in blends, it has shown its full potential as a standalone grape in recent years.

According to legend, the variety may have arrived from the ancient Greek town of Troy, brought to Puglia by Diomedes, King of Argo and a hero of the Trojan War.
Also called Uva di Troia, it ranks as Puglia’s third most important native black grape after Negroamaro and Primitivo.

While Negroamaro dominates Salento and Primitivo thrives in Taranto, Nero di Troia finds its ideal terroir in the province of Foggia and the northern part of Bari.
Together, these three varieties express the rich diversity of Puglia’s wine-growing heritage.
Nero di Troia has also contributed significantly to the development of the Castel del Monte wine area.
Its rediscovery has drawn new attention to other lesser-known native grapes like Bombino Bianco and Bombino Nero, both of which produce delightful wines that had long been overlooked.