Capocollo di Martina Franca: Excellence Among Traditional Cured Meats from Puglia

Capocollo di Martina Franca is one of the finest and most iconic cured meats from the Apulian culinary tradition. Originating in the Itria Valley, this typical product tells the story of an authentic land and an ancient craft that is still alive today.

What is Capocollo di Martina Franca?

Capocollo is a dry-cured pork cold cut made from the upper part of the pig’s neck. The version from Martina Franca, a town in the heart of Puglia, is especially renowned for its traditional craftsmanship, natural smoking process, and the use of local herbs and spices.

Key characteristics include:

• Smoking with fragno bark, a type of oak native to the Murgia plateau

• Marination in Puglian cooked wine (vino cotto)

• Aromatization with wild herbs from the local countryside

• Aging in natural environments for at least 120 days

The result is a delicately flavored cured meat with an intense aroma, a balanced, slightly sweet taste, a tender texture, and a deep red color marbled with creamy white fat.

An Artisanal Cured Meat Recognized by Slow Food

Capocollo di Martina Franca is a Slow Food Presidium, guaranteeing quality, sustainability, and traditional production methods. Farmers use pork from locally raised pigs—often crossbred with the native Nero di Martina Franca breed—and adhere to strict production guidelines.

This salume is a true excellence among traditional Apulian food products, made using techniques passed down through generations.

How to Enjoy Capocollo di Martina Franca

Capocollo is incredibly versatile and ideal for:

• Traditional Apulian appetizers, served with Altamura bread and regional cheeses

• Charcuterie boards featuring artisanal cured meats

• Gourmet pairings with fresh figs, honey, or fruit preserves

• Rustic sandwiches with extra virgin olive oil and cherry tomatoes

Pair it with a glass of Primitivo di Manduria or Negroamaro wine for a full Apulian tasting experience.

Where to Buy Capocollo di Martina Franca

You can find this product in:

• Traditional delicatessens in Martina Franca, Locorotondo, Cisternino, and Alberobello

• Local food markets and food fairs in Puglia

• Online shops specializing in Apulian products, preferably certified by Slow Food

Always choose artisan-quality Capocollo with clear labeling and certified origins for the best experience.

Why Choose Capocollo di Martina Franca

Choosing Capocollo di Martina Franca means bringing an authentic, high-quality product to your table—rich in history and deeply connected to its land of origin. It's one of the best expressions of traditional cured meats from Puglia, perfect for those who value flavor, authenticity, and craftsmanship.