Welcome to Vespa Vignaioli, a boutique winery in Manduria that proves big flavor comes in small packages. With just 25 hectares of vines rooted in the region’s famously iron-rich red soils, this estate is laser-focused on what Puglia does best: Primitivo. But not just any Primitivo—this is Manduria, the grape’s spiritual homeland, kissed by Ionian Sea breezes and baked under a southern Italian sun.
At the helm? None other than Riccardo Cotarella, Italy’s legendary “mago” (yes, wizard) of wine, whose career highlights include turning Tuscan and Umbrian wines into cult icons during the ‘90s. Cotarella brings his magic touch to Vespa’s lineup, crafting plush, expressive reds with just the right zing of freshness. His winemaking is equal parts old-school intuition and modern precision.
In addition to their flagship Manduria Primitivo, Vespa plays with a lighter take from the Salento peninsula and even dabbles in white with a rare local clone of Fiano. The results are vibrant, elegant, and refreshingly unexpected—just like the Vespa name itself.
If you thought you knew Primitivo, think again. Vespa Vignaioli is here to rewrite the rules—one bottle at a time.
Did you know?
Vespa’s wines come to life in Manduria, the true homeland of Primitivo, under the watchful eye of Riccardo Cotarella. Known across Italy as “the wizard,” Cotarella brings decades of experience—and a bit of magic—to this small but mighty estate.
Wines from Vespa
Vespa
Raccontami Primitivo di Manduria DOC
3 Gambero Rosso 2015
Available in: Canada, North America, Asia Pacific
