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WINES OF SOUTHERN ITALY
Leone de Castris
Founded in 1665 by the Spanish Duke Oronzo, Earl of Lemos, in the Italian region of Puglia, Leone de Castris
has been exporting wine since the beginning of the 19th century. The wines are the product of culture,
innovation and a centuries-old tradition of dedication and passion.
Leone de Castris’ entire range of wines has won awards and received prestigious recognition from all over
the world. Their products are present not only in European markets, but also in the USA, Canada, Brazil,
Australia, Singapore, Japan, Hong Kong, and more.
“Messapia” Verdeca Bianco Salento IGT
Messapia is made entirely from Verdeca, an ancient Greek variety that is prized by the locals for
producing wines that are crisp, refreshing, and floral. This wine is fermented and aged in stainless steel
to retain the fresh character of this unique grape.
“Five Roses” Rosato Salento IGT
“Five Roses” has special significance to the Leone de Castris family. Despite being created during the
turmoil of World War II, it actually became quite a success story: it was the first rosato bottled in Italy
and exported to the USA. Moreover, several generations of the family each had five children, so the
name ‘Five Roses’ holds special significance for the Leone de Castris family.
“Villa Santera” Primitivo di Manduria DOC
Villa Santera is named after a historic villa, which belongs to the Leone de Castris family, located in
the province of Taranto. The Primitivo di Manduria appellation is known for the production of bold and
spicy reds. This wine is no exception, skillfully crafted from hand-picked grapes grown on very mature
vines—40 years old on average. It is a concentrated and layered example of a true classic from Puglia.
“Maiana” Salice Salentino Rosso DOC
Salice Salentino is one of the earliest established appellations in Italy, dating back to 1939. This wine
is made with a majority of Negroamaro, a dark-skinned grape known for its tannic structure, and a
small addition of Malvasia Nera. The grapes from these mature vines are hand-harvested, fermented in
stainless steel and left to refine in large oak casks for six months before bottling.