Description

Leone de Castris Salice Salentino Riserva DOC Red Wine

The history of Leone de Castris runs parallel to that of wine in Puglia since, for over three centuries, the strength and pride of the nobility of its tradition has been released from every sip of its wine. In 1665 Oronzo Arcangelo of the Counts of Lemos, founded the cellar where it is still today, in Salice Salentino. It is right around the small village of Salice that large estates are created where mainly vineyards and olive trees are planted.

To celebrate the 50th year of Salice, since its first bottling, we have written 50th Vintage on our traditional label. This symbol will remain also in the next years but, exclusively for the 2004 vintage, we have designed one thousand numbered bottles of 5 litres with handmade decorations.

These bottles are intended for our Italian and foreign best customers and are a tribute to my grandfather Piero and my father Salvatore, who created this wine and were among the main protagonists of the Doc denomination in the early 70’s. Thanks to them this wine became famous all over the world and the City of Salice Salentino known in many countries.

Vinification

The grapes after a soft pressure and the separation of grapestalk are submitted to particular maceration at checked temperature (20-22°C) for a period of 8-12 days. After the fermentation the wine is put to sharpen in oak barrels of different capacities for about 6-12 months. It becomes “Reserve” after 2 years from the date of harvest.

Leone de Castris Salice Salentino Riserva DOC Red Wine features an intense garnet color. Aromas of blackberry and black cherry, notes of basil and sweet spices due to the refinement in oak barrels. In the mouth it is smooth and balanced with a strong but never intrusive tannin. Long and lingering finish. Pairs very well with roasted meats and ripe cheeses.

Leone de Castris Salice Salentino Riserva DOC Red Wine Notes To Your Senses:

• APPEARANCE: Intense garnet
• AROMA: Dark and red fruits, spice and hints of oak
• TASTE: Full bodied, flavors of blackberry and black cherry, notes of basil and sweet spices with well integrated tannins
• FINISH: Long and lingering
• ABV: 14.5%