2017 · Copertino

Founded in 1935 by 36 vine-growers, Cupertinum is a historic, member-owned cooperative in Copertino, Salento, now bringing together around 300 growers. It focuses on traditional local varieties—especially Negroamaro, alongside Malvasia nera, Primitivo and Malvasia bianca—grown in the clay and limestone or tufa soils of the Copertino DOC area. Its wines emphasize territorial typicity and tradition rather than passing trends, with most produced as Copertino DOC or Salento IGT. The cooperative also supports cultural and educational initiatives, publishes the periodical Cupertinum Doc, and has pursued ecological projects including a photovoltaic installation and the Vigneto sul Castello, a Negroamaro vineyard on Copertino Castle. Its wines have received recognition from Italian and international guides.