Leone de Castris

Primitivo and Negroamaro from Puglia's Salice Salentino subregion.

Leone de Castris operates in Salice Salentino, a subregion of Puglia in southern Italy known for dark, structured reds built on indigenous varieties. The winery's portfolio centers on Primitivo and Negroamaro, grapes that thrive in Puglia's warm climate and express the region's characteristic depth and power. Per Lui Primitivo, a single-varietal expression, anchors the range at the top of the winery's prestige ratings. The Per Lui Salice Salentino Riserva and Donna Lisa Salice Salentino Riserva—both Negroamaro-based wines—demonstrate the winery's command of the appellation's traditional blend. These wines have been assessed by Wine Enthusiast, Wine Spectator, Wine Advocate, Decanter, and Falstaff. Salice Salentino itself is defined by Negroamaro's earthy tannins and dark fruit, often softened by Primitivo's riper profile. The winery's focus on reserve bottlings signals commitment to aging potential and complexity.