Leone de Castris

Leone de Castris is one of the most recognisable historic names in Apulian winemaking, based in Salice Salentino, in the north-western part of the Salento peninsula. Its identity is linked to a warm, sunny and breezy region, where the proximity to the sea and the nature of the Salento terroir foster a style of viticulture that combines Mediterranean ripeness, savoury character and aromatic depth. The winery has been working with Apulian and Salento grapes for centuries, playing a particularly significant role in promoting Negroamaro and Malvasia Nera, grape varieties central to the character of Salice Salentino DOC.

The production philosophy is based on a broad yet coherent interpretation of the region’s heritage: alongside traditional red grape varieties, there is room for varieties such as Primitivo, Susumaniello, Verdeca, Aleatico and Ottavianello, crafted with a focus on the raw material and the distinctive character of the terroir. The stylistic approach favours wines with a distinct Salento character, in which fruit, structure and freshness are sought in balance, avoiding excessive technical intervention and allowing the character of the grapes to shine through.

The winery’s history is also closely linked to the evolution of Apulian rosé, a field in which Leone de Castris has helped to define a distinctive style based on colour, aroma and precision. The continuity between tradition, agricultural expertise and a focus on sustainability makes the producer a cultural icon of the Salento region, capable of representing Puglia through wines with a distinct and terroir-driven profile.