Valle d’Itria is a historical viticultural area in Puglia that has been revitalised in recent years thanks to the work of local vintners and wineries. This has also brought attention to local native grapes such as Bianco d’Alessano, Minutolo, Verdeca, and Maruggiu (or Maresco). These are the grapes used as a blend in the Locorotondo DOC: Verdeca, 50%, Bianco d’Alessano, 35%, and the rest a mix of local grapes. The Locorotondo DOC was once an important denomination in Puglia.
Today, several wineries are making Verdeca, Bianco D’Alessano, and Minutolo as monovarietal wines to enhance their particular characteristics. It is also a way to valorise the Valle d’Itria and its history.
I spoke with Stephanie Cuadra quite some time ago to learn more about the project she and her husband, Roberto Lasorte, started during the pandemic in Puglia. I intended to transform my WinesOfItaly LiveStream into a podcast more than a year ago, but due to serious health problems that started last year and for which I am under treatment, I was not able to relaunch the livestream/podcast. I am slowly getting back to work; therefore, I am now starting by publishing the interviews I did more than a year ago.
Revitalising the family vineyard of Lasorte & Cuadra in Puglia
In this Wines of Italy episode, I speak with Stephanie Cuadra about her intriguing journey into the wine world and her current wine project with her husband, Roberto Lasorte, in Valle d’Itria, Puglia. Their winery is called Lasorte Cuadra after their surnames.
Stephanie delves into her late start in the wine industry, her shift from journalism focusing on geopolitics and international relations, and her dedication to biodynamic viticulture. She describes their efforts to rejuvenate an abandoned family farm during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the challenges and rewards of preserving traditional viticulture in the Valle d’Itria.
You will learn about the native grape varieties they cultivate, the story behind their single vineyard field blend wine ‘Silos’ and their forthcoming artisanal vermouth. (When this interview was recorded, they were about to launch their vermouth. Today, it is one of their products on offer.) Stephanie also discusses the broader impact of their work on local agricultural sustainability and the wine’s reception in international markets. This episode provides insight into the intricate blend of heritage, community, and modern winemaking.
- 00:00 Welcome to Wines of Italy Livestream
- 00:37 Stephanie Cuadra’s Journey into the Wine World
- 02:34 Founding Terrestoria Wine Imports
- 03:12 The Birth of the Lasorte Cuadra Project
- 05:28 Challenges and Discoveries in Winemaking
- 14:30 Sustainability and Community Support
- 17:55 Future Plans and Market Expansion
- 34:23 Conclusion and Contact Information
