Leone de Castris

Overview

Estate

Leone de Castris is one of the most historic and important wineries in Puglia, founded in 1665 in Salice Salentino by the de Castris family. With more than three centuries of history, the winery has played a fundamental role in developing Salento viticulture and in promoting Southern Italian wines worldwide, becoming internationally renowned for iconic labels such as Five Roses, the first bottled rosé wine in Italy.

Climate

The climate of Salento is Mediterranean, with very hot, breezy summers and mild winters. Breezes from the Ionian and Adriatic Seas promote proper grape ripening and help preserve aromatic balance and freshness in the wines.

Soil

The soils are primarily clay-calcareous, with red, sandy soils rich in minerals and iron oxides. This composition provides excellent drainage and contributes to the production of intense, structured, and savory wines.

Vineyards

The estate vineyards are primarily located in the Salice Salentino area and other highly suitable areas of Puglia. The cultivated varieties include Negroamaro, Primitivo, Malvasia Nera, Verdeca, Aleatico, Fiano, and other native and international grape varieties. The vineyards benefit from ample sunlight and significant day-to-night temperature variation during ripening.

Cultivation

The agronomic management focuses on sustainable and environmentally respectful practices. Yields are carefully controlled to preserve quality and aromatic concentration, while harvesting is carried out through precise grape selection.

Winery

The winery blends historical tradition with technological innovation. Vinification occurs in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks to preserve freshness and aromas, while large oak casks and barriques are used to age the more structured wines.

Family

The history of Leone de Castris has been tied to the de Castris family for generations, and the winery has played a leading role in Apulian viticulture since the 17th century. Today, the winery remains a historic symbol of Salento, maintaining a strong connection to the territory and the regional winemaking tradition.

Winemaker

The winery’s production philosophy focuses on enhancing Apulian native grape varieties through an elegant, modern, and terroir-driven style. Great attention is paid to balancing structure, freshness, and aromatic precision.

Focus Point

• Historic winery founded in 1665. • Producer of Five Roses, the first bottled rosé wine in Italy. • Extensive vineyard heritage in Salento. • International benchmark for Puglian wines.