The art of cooking “al fornello” in the trullo vineyard in Martina Franca

The Art of Cooking “al Fornello” in a Trullo Vineyard in Martina Franca

This 3-minute tour offers a unique opportunity to watch the ancient art of “stove” cooking in the scenic Trulli Valley of Apulia, Italy. Hosted by Trullo experience, it boasts a perfect 5-star rating and combines culinary demonstrations with tasting local wines and delicacies. While the duration is brief, the experience’s intimacy and focus on authentic techniques make it a memorable addition for those interested in Pugliese cuisine and culture.

The tour begins with a guided visit to the Susumaniello vineyard, where you’ll get a glimpse of the five-cone trullo—a traditional structure once used for wine production. Led by Ernesto, a professional bracerista who specializes in “stove” cooking, you’ll learn the secrets behind this age-old method. The experience emphasizes local flavors, featuring cured meats, cheeses, baked goods, and a selection of top-quality Apulian wines. The overall focus on authenticity and craftsmanship makes this experience ideal for visitors seeking a taste of Martinese culinary traditions.

While the tour is very short in duration, it provides an engaging and sensory-rich experience that combines visual storytelling with tasting. It is particularly suited to those with limited time but a strong interest in regional food culture and wine. The exclusive setting in a trullo vineyard adds a touch of charm and authenticity that enhances the overall appeal.

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Key Points

• Duration: Only 3 minutes but packed with cultural value
• Location: Set in the heart of the Trulli Valley in Martina Franca
• Includes: Guided tour of Susumaniello vineyard and five-cone trullo
• Highlights: Watch a barbecue expert at work, learn “stove” cooking secrets
• Tasting: Enjoy local cured meats, cheeses, baked goods, and top-quality Apulian wines
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible and available as a private group experience

Visiting the Trullo Vineyard and Susumaniello Vineyard

The tour opens with a visit to the Susumaniello vineyard, famous for its distinctive grapes. Visitors get a chance to see the vineyard landscape, learn about the local wine production, and appreciate the traditional architecture of the five-cone trullo—a structure historically used for wine making. The vineyard setting offers an authentic backdrop that connects the culinary experience with local agricultural practices.

Meeting Ernesto, the Bracerista, and His Cooking Secrets

The core of this tour is the demonstration led by Ernesto, a professional bracerista skilled in “stove” cooking. He explains the techniques and secrets behind this ancient method, which involves cooking meats and delicacies over an open flame or stove. The expertise Ernesto shares highlights the craftsmanship behind traditional Martinese barbecue and meat preparation.

Tasting Local Specialties: Cured Meats and Baked Goods

Following Ernesto’s demonstration, the experience transitions into a tasting session of regional delicacies. Guests sample capocollo and other cured meats, along with fresh dairy products and local cheeses. The baked goods accompanying the meats are also featured, delivering a well-rounded culinary snapshot of Itria Valley flavors.

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Sampling “al Fornello” Cooked Meats and Wines

The highlight of the tasting is the “al fornello”-prepared meats, including bombette, sausage, and fillet wrapped in crispy bacon. These traditional dishes are accompanied by a curated selection of local Apulian wines, offering a perfect pairing that enhances the savory flavors. The wine selection adds a layer of regional authenticity to the tasting experience.

Sweets and Rosoli: Ending on a Sweet Note

The experience concludes with almond pastries and traditional rosoli infused with wild herbs. These sweet and herbal liqueurs provide a refreshing finish to the tasting, letting visitors experience the full spectrum of regional culinary craftsmanship.

The Meeting Point and Practical Details

The tour departs from a central meeting point in Martina Franca, with precise instructions provided after booking. The coordinates are 40.70146942138672, 17.343975067138672. It is designed as a private group experience, ensuring a personalized atmosphere. The experience is accessible for wheelchair users and conducted in English, French, and German.

Booking, Flexibility, and Cancellation Policies

Booking is flexible with a “reserve now & pay later” option, allowing travelers to secure their spot without immediate payment. Cancellation is permitted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it easy to adapt travel plans if needed. The duration is listed as 3 minutes, which likely refers to a brief but impactful segment rather than a literal time; availability can be checked for specific starting times.

The Unique Charm of the Trullo Experience

What sets this experience apart is its intimate setting in a trullo vineyard, combined with the expertise of Ernesto and the focus on authentic regional techniques. The culinary demonstration, paired with a wine tasting in a traditional Apulian environment, offers a tactile and flavorful connection to the local culture.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This experience is perfect for curious food lovers with limited time, interested in regional culinary traditions and wine. Its private group format and accessible design make it suitable for a variety of travelers, though it is not intended for children under 18. Visitors who value local craftsmanship and authentic flavors will find this experience especially rewarding.

Comparing to Other Experiences

While this tour focuses on “al fornello” cooking in a short duration, similar experiences, such as winery tours or cheese tastings, can be found in the region. Notable alternatives include wine tastings combined with dinner or walking tours around Alberobello. Nonetheless, this experience’s direct demonstration of ancient cooking techniques in a historic setting offers something uniquely immersive.

Final Thoughts on the “Art of Cooking ‘al Fornello'” Tour

Despite its brief length, this tour provides a deep dive into Apulian culinary heritage. The guided demonstration, local product tasting, and wine pairing make it a rich, sensory introduction to the region’s flavors. The authentic setting within a trullo vineyard enhances the experience, making it particularly appealing for culture-focused travelers.

While it may be a short stop, the quality of the demonstration and intimate setting compensate for the limited duration. It’s especially suited for those who value craftsmanship, local ingredients, and regional wine. For anyone looking to add a flavorful twist to their trip to Martina Franca, this “al fornello” cooking experience offers a genuine taste of Puglia’s culinary soul.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The experience is listed as 3 minutes, focusing on a demonstration and tasting segment. The exact duration may vary, but the core activity is concise.

What is included in the experience?
Guests enjoy a guided tour of the vineyard and trullo, a cooking demonstration by Ernesto, and a tasting of cured meats, cheeses, baked goods, and local wines. Almond pastries and rosoli conclude the tasting.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, the experience is not suitable for children under 18.

What languages are spoken during the tour?
The experience is offered in English, French, and German.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Where does the tour begin?
The meeting point is indicated after booking, with coordinates 40.70146942138672, 17.343975067138672.

Is the experience accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its authentic demonstration of “stove” cooking in a historic trullo setting paired with top-quality wine tastings offers a unique and personalized insight into Martinese culinary traditions.

Can I reserve my spot and pay later?
Yes, the “reserve now & pay later” option allows flexible booking without immediate payment.

How does this experience compare with other regional tours?
While similar in offering wine, food, and cultural insights, this tour’s focus on “al fornello” cooking and short duration makes it a compact, focused experience rooted deeply in local techniques.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby