Salice Salentino refers to a wine-growing area in the Salento Plain, situated between the provinces of Lecce and Brindisi, in a flat landscape characterised by vineyards, olive groves and ancient farmhouses. The Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers, mild winters and a constant breeze, promotes the even ripening of the grapes and good aromatic concentration, whilst preserving balance and freshness.
The soils, often calcareous-clayey and siliceous, may include red components, marine sediments and stony substrates, with a structure capable of ensuring drainage and water retention even during the driest periods. The flagship grape variety is Negroamaro, the star of the red and rosé wines, alongside Malvasia Nera, Primitivo and Aleatico. For the white wines, Chardonnay, Fiano, Pinot Bianco and Verdeca are recognised.
The appellation encompasses red, rosé, white, sparkling and sweet or fortified wines, produced using winemaking techniques ranging from maceration on the skins to the gentler pressing of white grapes. Vineyard management combines traditional methods such as the ‘alberello’ system with modern espalier training, using targeted pruning and allowing irrigation only as a last resort. The DOC, recognised in 1976, embodies a tradition deeply rooted in the agricultural culture of the Salento region.