About this wine
Vineyard and terroir
The grapes grow in the fertile, rich soils of the Salento peninsula. The estate's vineyards lie around the small town of Salice Salentino, in the northwest of the peninsula, where Leone de Castris has been based for more than three centuries. The vines have an average age of 40 years. The microclimate is hot and dry with many sunny days, which helps the grapes reach high sugar levels and gives wines of high alcohol content.
Grapes
The blend is mainly Negroamaro, with Malvasia Nera di Lecce as the complement.
Vinification
Harvest is usually by hand in late September. The grapes are destemmed and gently pressed, then macerated and fermented at a controlled 20–22 °C for 8–12 days. Malolactic fermentation follows.
Ageing
The wine ages for at least 6–12 months in oak barrels of various sizes. After bottling it rests a further 6 months in the winery's cellars to refine aroma and flavour. Riserva status is granted only 2 years after the harvest.
Tasting profile
Rich cherry flavours with subtle notes of wood.
Serving and pairing
Pairings named: rustic crusty bread and Caciocavallo cheese.
Label / history
Leone de Castris has produced this Salice Salentino Riserva since 1954. From the 2004 vintage the words "50° Vendemmia" were added to the label to mark 50 years since the first bottle of Salice Salentino Riserva was made, and they have appeared on every vintage since. Leone de Castris was founded in 1665 in Puglia.
