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What is Castel del Monte DOC?
Castel del Monte DOC is northern Puglia’s most prestigious wine appellation, producing exceptional Italian wines from both native and international grape varieties. Named after Frederick II’s iconic UNESCO World Heritage castle, the DOC was established in 1971 and encompasses white, red, rosato, and sparkling wines that showcase the unique terroir of the Alta Murgia plateau. While three elevated styles have achieved separate DOCG status, Castel del Monte DOC remains the foundation of this renowned Italian wine region.
Castel del Monte DOC produces four main wine styles:
- Bianco: white wines from Bombino Bianco and Pampanuto
- Rosato: rosé wines from Bombino Nero and Aglianico
- Rosso: red wines from Nero di Troia and Aglianico
- Spumante: sparkling wines, typically Charmat or Metodo Classico
Key Facts About Castel del Monte DOC
| Feature | Details |
| DOC Established | 1971 |
| Region | Northern Puglia, Alta Murgia |
| Provinces | Bari, Barletta-Andria-Trani |
| Wine Styles | Bianco, Rosato, Rosso, Spumante |
| Key Grapes | Nero di Troia, Bombino Nero, Bombino Bianco |
| Vineyard Elevation | 300-500 meters |
| Climate | Hot, dry Mediterranean |
| Related DOCG | 3 elevated styles (since 2011) |
History and Origins of Castel del Monte DOC
Castel del Monte DOC was established in 1971 as one of Puglia’s first official wine appellations, formalizing centuries of winemaking tradition in northern Puglia. The region’s viticultural heritage stretches back to Greek settlers during Magna Graecia, later expanded under Roman rule, when viticulture became central to trade and local culture.
The medieval period marked a turning point with Emperor Frederick II, whose 13th-century castle gave the region its name. His legacy of innovation and cultural fusion continues to shape the identity of these wines today.
In 2011, three exceptional Castel del Monte wine styles—Bombino Nero Rosato DOCG, Nero di Troia Riserva DOCG, and Rosso Riserva DOCG—were elevated to DOCG status, underscoring the exceptional quality of the region’s terroir.
Castel del Monte DOC Geography & Terroir
Located in the Alta Murgia plateau, vineyards sit between 300–500 meters above sea level. The terroir is marked by:
- Limestone-rich soils that enhance minerality
- Hot, dry Mediterranean climate tempered by altitude
- Strong diurnal shifts preserving acidity and freshness
This unique geography helps Castel del Monte wines balance bold southern ripeness with elegant structure.
Grape Varieties in Castel del Monte DOC
- Nero di Troia – the region’s flagship red, offering dark fruit, spice, and firm tannins
- Bombino Nero – primarily for rosato wines, known for freshness and bright red fruit
- Bombino Bianco & Pampanuto – producing aromatic, lively white wines
- Aglianico & Montepulciano – add depth and structure to red blends
👉 Learn more about these grapes in our profiles: Nero di Troia, Bombino Nero, Bombino Bianco.
DOC vs DOCG: Understanding the Differences
While Castel del Monte DOC covers a wide range of wine styles, three specific types were elevated to DOCG status in 2011:
- Castel del Monte Bombino Nero DOCG (Rosato)
- Castel del Monte Nero di Troia Riserva DOCG
- Castel del Monte Rosso Riserva DOCG
These represent the highest quality expression of the region’s terroir, with stricter yield, aging, and alcohol requirements.
👉 Learn more about Italian classifications in our guide to DOC vs DOCG wines.
Food Pairings with Castel del Monte DOC
- Rosato: burrata, orecchiette with tomato sauce, grilled seafood
- Bianco: fried calamari, Puglian focaccia, fresh mozzarella
- Rosso: lamb, orecchiette with ragù, aged caciocavallo cheese
- Spumante: raw oysters, seafood crudo, Puglian taralli
Best Castel del Monte DOC Producers
Some of the most celebrated producers include:
- Rivera – benchmark producer with a full DOC/DOCG portfolio
- Torrevento – historic estate within the Alta Murgia
- Agricola del Sole – organic-focused producer
- Conte Spagnoletti Zeuli – elegant, age-worthy Nero di Troia
How to Read Castel del Monte DOC Labels
Labels indicate style (Bianco, Rosato, Rosso, Spumante), grape variety when applicable, and vintage year. Reserve wines often specify “Riserva” and follow stricter DOC/DOCG rules.
Castel del Monte DOC vs Other Puglia DOCs
Compared to richer Primitivo-based DOCs like Manduria, Castel del Monte wines offer more structure, minerality, and aging potential, thanks to altitude and limestone soils.
FAQ – Castel del Monte DOC
- What grapes are used in Castel del Monte DOC?
Primarily Nero di Troia, Bombino Nero, Bombino Bianco, Pampanuto, and Aglianico. - How much does Castel del Monte DOC cost?
Entry-level bottles start around €10–15, with top Riservas ranging €30–50+. - What food pairs with Castel del Monte DOC wines?
Seafood, pasta dishes, lamb, and aged cheeses are classic Puglian pairings. - Where can I buy Castel del Monte DOC wine online?
Specialist retailers like Eataly and Vivino ship internationally. - What’s the best Castel del Monte DOC producer?
Rivera, Torrevento, and Conte Spagnoletti Zeuli are considered benchmarks.
Where to Buy Castel del Monte DOC Wines
- Online Retailers: Vivino, Wine.com, Eataly
- Local Wine Shops: Especially those specializing in Italian wines
- Direct from Producers: Many estates offer shipping through their websites
Have you tried Castel del Monte DOC wines? Share your tasting experience with us in the comments, or tag us on Instagram @DrinkItalian with your favorite bottle.
Have fun to learn more about Italian Wines and Spirits! Explore also the non-alcoholic beverages
Send us an email if you want to suggest edits, or if you are looking for more info, at
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If you are in the mood for a good book, you can try:
– The Modern History of Italian Wine by Walter Filipputti
– Hidden Gems of Italy: An Insider’s Secret Formula To Find Top-Class Italian Wines At Value Prices And Taste La Dolce Vita by Tony Margiotta
Additionally, you can discover the other wines from Puglia.
