Where the Name Susumaniello Comes From: History and Origin of a Unique Grape Variety
In the heart of Puglia, amid the fertile lands of the province of Brindisi, lies a grape variety that tells a centuries-old story of tradition, passion, and love for the land: Susumaniello. If you’re a wine lover or simply curious about Italy’s winemaking wonders, you may have wondered: where does the name Susumaniello come from? In this article, we’ll explore the roots of this unique name and discover how one of our region’s most prized grape varieties came into being.
The roots of the name: “Susumaniello”
The word Susumaniello derives from the Apulian dialect word “somarello” or “somaro,” meaning donkey. This grape variety, in fact, takes its name from the donkey because of a unique characteristic: its ability to produce exceptional quantities of grapes, especially in its first years, reminiscent of the strength and load a donkey could bear.
The dialect expression “Susumaniello” refers to the productivity of the young vine, which produces abundant harvests in the first ten years, then declines as the vine ages. This characteristic has made Susumaniello one of the most beloved grape varieties among Apulian farmers, capable of producing large quantities of grapes in a short time, thus ensuring a reliable supply of wine for the local market.
The history of the Susumaniello grape variety
Although today considered a symbol of Apulian viticulture, Susumaniello hasn’t always been so popular. Its history is closely tied to migrations and cultural exchanges across the Mediterranean.
Distant Origins: From Dalmatia to Puglia
Susumaniello is believed to have Dalmatian origins, imported to Puglia by Venetian merchants during the rule of the Serenissima. Trade between the two shores of the Adriatic was intense and frequent, and plants and vines also traveled with the goods. Susumaniello found in Puglia a perfect climate to thrive, thanks to the region’s typical clay and limestone soils.
Over the centuries, this grape variety has adapted perfectly to the local climate, becoming one of the symbols of Brindisi viticulture. It’s interesting to note that this grape variety, initially used to produce blended wines due to its high yield, is now considered a true oenological gem, thanks to the quality of its grapes.
The evolution of Susumaniello: from blending variety to star of Apulian wine.
Until a few decades ago, Susumaniello was often used as a blending variety, meaning it was used to enhance the structure and color of other wines. However, thanks to the rediscovery of more meticulous winemaking techniques and a new appreciation for native grape varieties, Susumaniello has begun to carve out a niche of its own.
Today, thanks to forward-thinking producers like Cantina Sampietrana, Susumaniello is vinified as a single varietal, revealing all its complexity and unique characteristics. The resulting wine is rich and tannic, with notes of red fruit, spice, and a freshness that makes it ideal for both aging and enjoying younger.
Conclusion
Susumaniello is much more than just a grape variety: it’s a piece of Puglia’s history, a symbol of resilience and adaptation. Its ability to evolve over time, from a blending variety to a staple on the table, makes it unique in the Italian wine scene.
So, the next time you enjoy a glass of Susumaniello, remember its history, its origins, and its connection to the Apulian land. And if you’re wondering where the name Susumaniello comes from, now you know the answer: from the tireless work and strength of a grape variety that, like a donkey, carries with it a rich legacy.
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