Doppio Passo

Whether you’re looking for a full-bodied red wine to enjoy with a barbecue, an approachable everyday wine or a gift for wine lovers – Doppio Passo is always a safe bet. This winery, with its roots in the heart of Puglia, embodies the warmth and passion of southern Italy. Building on a family tradition spanning almost a century and a unique production process, Doppio Passo Primitivo is now one of the best-known and best-selling Italian wines in Europe.

The origins of Doppio Passo: the Botter family

The adventure began in 1928, when Maria and Carlo Botter founded a family-run winery near Venice. What started as a small trading house specialising in wines from the Veneto region quickly grew into one of Italy’s most influential wine companies. As early as the 1980s, the family recognised the enormous potential of Puglia – at a time when hardly anyone was aware of the merits of this ancient wine-growing region. They established partnerships with local producers at an early stage, thereby laying the foundations for the Doppio Passo project. Since 2017, Masseria Doppio Passo near Manduria has been wholly family-owned. Today, the company is run by the third generation of the family: Luca, Annalisa and Alessandro Botter.

A winery that has remained true to its identity

Whilst many wine brands have been absorbed into large corporate groups, Doppio Passo has remained true to its family-run identity. The values of quality, craftsmanship and passion characterise every bottle. In September 2020, a joint venture was established between the Argea SPA Group and the German wine marketing company Rotkäppchen-Mumm Sektkellereien GmbH – a milestone in the brand’s international expansion. Today, Doppio Passo is available in more than 50 countries, without ever losing sight of its Puglia roots.

Puglia is one of the oldest wine-growing regions in the world. The region stretches across south-eastern Italy along the coasts of the Ionian and Adriatic Seas. The Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild winters, creates ideal conditions for the indigenous Primitivo grape, which has been grown here for over 250 years. Masseria Doppio Passo is situated near the picturesque town of Manduria, surrounded by centuries-old olive groves and vineyards. In total, the estate comprises around 1,500 hectares of land in Puglia – an area that enables it to select exquisite grapes with the utmost care and to meet the demands of international markets.

At the heart of the domaine lies a unique winemaking process. Translated from Italian, Doppio Passo means ‘double pass’ – and this is precisely how the famous Primitivo Puglia IGT is produced. The Primitivo grapes are harvested in two stages: one batch at full ripeness, the other as a late harvest, after the berries have hung on the vine for several more weeks and gently dried out. Their aromas become more concentrated and the sugar content rises. After the first maceration, the wine is returned to the skins and undergoes a second fermentation – during which it extracts further colour, aroma and a seductive hint of sweetness from the skins. The result is a smooth, full-bodied and exceptionally aromatic red wine with a deep ruby colour, ripe black cherries, plums, notes of cocoa and dark chocolate, and velvety-smooth tannins.

The Doppio Passo wines are renowned for their variety and approachability. Each cuvée is the result of a meticulous production process that reflects the house’s distinctive style. Whether you’re looking for a full-bodied red, a fresh white or a sparkling Prosecco – this guide will help you find the perfect bottle to suit your taste and the occasion.

Doppio Passo Primitivo Puglia IGT: The classic

The Doppio Passo Primitivo is the best-selling wine in the range and has been an absolute favourite with countless wine lovers across Europe for years. Full-bodied, warm and velvety, with intense aromas of black cherries, blackberries and a hint of vanilla. Its subtle residual sweetness makes it irresistibly approachable. An ideal accompaniment to pasta, grilled meat and strong cheeses – or simply to be enjoyed on its own.

Primitivo di Manduria Riserva: The Crown Jewel

The Doppio Passo Primitivo di Manduria Riserva is the winery’s flagship wine. After 9 months’ ageing in oak barrels, it reveals enticing aromas of wild berries and cherries, with a subtle hint of oak and a touch of vanilla. Powerful, opulent and harmonious – perfect for special occasions or as a fine gift for wine connoisseurs.

Doppio Passo Prosecco & Rosé: Lightness from the South

The Doppio Passo range also includes a crisp Prosecco and an elegant Prosecco Rosé, which, with their sparkling vibrancy and fruity aromas, are perfect as an aperitif or for celebrating special moments. Light, fresh and carefree – the very essence of la dolce vita.

What makes the Doppio Passo Primitivo so special?

The name says it all: ‘Doppio Passo’ stands for the double pass – a method we have been refining for decades. We harvest our Primitivo grapes in two stages and ferment the wine twice on the skins. This creates depth, complexity and that velvety texture that makes our wines so distinctive. It’s no secret – it’s craftsmanship.

Why is Puglia the ideal home for Primitivo?

Puglia is one of the oldest wine-growing regions in the world. The sun, the soils between the Ionian and Adriatic Seas, and the Mediterranean climate – all these factors give the Primitivo grape an intensity that is virtually impossible to achieve elsewhere. We recognised the potential of this region as early as the 1980s, long before it caught the attention of the international wine world. This conviction is part of our DNA.

Who are Doppio Passo wines made for?

For anyone who appreciates uncomplicated, high-quality enjoyment. Whether with red meat, pasta, game dishes or strong cheeses – our wines are the perfect accompaniment to the good life. We aim to capture the Italian way of life in every bottle, bringing a little piece of Puglia into people’s homes all over the world.

How has Doppio Passo developed over the years?

What began with a single Primitivo has now grown into a diverse range of wines – from reds and rosés to whites and Prosecco. Most recently, we have also expanded the range to include alcohol-free wines – because we continue to evolve alongside our customers, without ever forgetting our roots. Our aim remains the same as it was in 1928: to capture the essence of Italy in every bottle.

Doppio Passo is regarded as one of Italy’s most accessible yet characterful wines. The Primitivo Puglia IGT delights with its irresistible combination of fruit, warmth and a velvety-smooth texture – a wine that appeals to both newcomers and experienced wine connoisseurs alike. If you’re looking for the most popular bottles, it’s best to look out for bottles labelled ‘Customer Top Rated’ on our website - the favourite and best-rated wines of our customers.

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