Winemaker Masca del Tacco
Puglia - Italy
More information about 'Masca del Tacco'
Under the guidance of his experienced father Armando, Felice Mergè purchased the old cave communale estate in Erchie in 2010. The beautiful historic building was fully restored to its former glory and renamed ‘Masca del Tacco’.
The vineyards were expanded with some of the finest plots in the area, and the cellars were equipped with the latest state-of-the-art winemaking technology. Felice had already proven with Poggio Le Volpi (Lazio) that he could successfully carry on his father’s legacy. In Puglia, he quickly established Masca del Tacco as one of the region’s leading estates.
The sun, warmth, and the influence of the Salento Peninsula provide ideal conditions for grapes such as Negroamaro, Primitivo, Susumaniello, and Uva di Troya to compete in quality with the finest wines from the north.
The days when only bulk wines were produced here are long gone. Thanks to their intense, sun-filled yet highly enjoyable character, Puglia has become one of the most up-and-coming wine regions of the past 20 years.
Felice masters the art of transforming grapes into outstanding wines that appeal to everyone — from young to old, from connoisseurs to casual drinkers, and even those not yet convinced by wine.
The immensely popular wines of Epicuro, Masseria Trajone, Feudi del Duca, and Per Tutti are also his creations.
When I look back, I see hardworking hands, my grandfather’s stories, and my father’s secrets. When I look at today, I see a successful, dynamic, and modern family business that looks to the future with respect for tradition.
Quote by Félice Mergè
Why you should definitely have Masca del Tacco at home:
Wine cellars equipped with state-of-the-art winemaking technology
One of the best wineries in Puglia!
Masca del Tacco scores exceptionally high ratings from Luca Maroni & regularly wins awards
Intense, sun-filled and at the same time deliciously balanced character!
The delicious wines of Masca del Tacco
Red wines:
2021 - Masca del Tacco - Li Filitti- Primitivo di Manduria Riserva - 98 points Luca Maroni
2023 - Masca del Tacco - Lu Rappaio Primitivo di Manduria - 97 points Luca Maroni
2023 - Masca del Tacco - Primitivo - Old Vines
2024 - Masca del Tacco - Susumaniello - 99 punti Luca Maroni - Puglia
2025 - Masca del Tacco - Lu Ceppu - Negroamaro - 97 punti Luca Maroni -
Rosé wines:
2023 - Masca del Tacco - RO'SI Susumaniello Sparkling - ROSATO BRUT
2024 - Masca del Tacco - ROSATO Susumaniello 97 Punti Luca Maroni - ROSATO
White wines:
2024 - Masca del Tacco - L’Uetta Fiano - 96 points Luca Maroni
The vineyards of Masca del Tacco in Puglia
The vineyards are spread across four locations, all situated in the north of the Salento peninsula (southeast of Naples and Pompeii), with additional vineyards in Lazio and Puglia. Near Brindisi lies Masseria Paticchi, where Negroamaro, Primitivo, Cabernet Sauvignon and Fiano are grown, along with the recently reintroduced Susumaniello. This is a very old grape variety that has been revived, rightly so, thanks to its powerful and complex character. The vineyard of Masseria Villa Maria in Torricella (Taranto) produces Primitivo di Manduria from predominantly old vines (at least 50 years old). Finally, there is the vineyard of Veglie in the province of Lecce, where Negroamaro reigns supreme.
The terroir
A temperate climate with gentle breezes coming in from the Mediterranean Sea. Very warm summers and mild winters.
The soil
Lowlands with red soils rich in organic matter, giving the wines pleasant mineral notes.
Winemaking in Puglia
Puglia, also known as Apulia, is a captivating region in southeastern Italy that embodies the spirit of Mediterranean life. With its idyllic landscapes of vast olive groves, sun-drenched beaches, and historic towns with whitewashed houses, Puglia enchants visitors with its unique charm.
It is especially renowned for its thriving wine culture. The region produces a wealth of characterful wines, including Primitivo, Negroamaro, Fiano, and Verdeca. The combination of warm sunshine, cooling sea breezes, and fertile soils creates ideal conditions for grape growing, resulting in wines of outstanding quality.
Exploring the wine routes of Puglia offers the opportunity not only to discover beautiful vineyards, but also to experience the warm hospitality of the local people, while enjoying the unforgettable flavors of Italian life.
