Salento

Salento is situated in the southeast of Italy, forming the heel of the Italian boot in the region of Apulia (Puglia). The area benefits from a warm, Mediterranean climate, with abundant sunshine and cooling breezes from both the Adriatic and Ionian seas. Summers are hot and dry while winters are mild, creating excellent conditions for vine growing.

Salento’s soils are predominantly limestone, clay, and sand, often mixed with iron-rich red earth (terra rossa), which allows for good drainage and imparts notable minerality to the wines. The landscape is gently undulating to flat, dotted with ancient olive groves and expansive vineyards.

The key grape varieties are Negroamaro, Primitivo, and Malvasia Nera for reds, with Fiano and Malvasia used for whites. Salento is particularly known for its robust, warm red wines, often featuring ripe black fruit, spice, and sometimes a touch of earthiness. Rosé (rosato) made from Negroamaro or Primitivo is also a local specialty, characterized by fresh acidity and aromas of red berries.

The region encompasses several IGT and DOC denominations, such as Salice Salentino DOC and Primitivo di Manduria DOC. Notable towns include Manduria, Lecce, and Copertino. Salento wines are typically approachable and open in style, with many reds having the structure to age for several years.