Leone de Castris is a partner in the Vinum Loci Project, a national committee promoting scientific research and knowledge of ancient and native Italian vines. Susumaniello can’t be found anywhere else except Puglia, and it nearly disappeared completely around 20 years ago due to the declining productivity levels in the vine as it ages.

Leone de Castris has proven Susumaniello is capable of travelling solo when treated with care, and so here we see it without its traditional Negroamaro partner. The fruit was grown on the Lemos estate on the edges of the Salento township. Vinification was completed in steel and the wine aged briefly in bottle before release.

The bouquet is complex and savoury with smoke, cloves and liquorice. Initially taut on the palate, it progresses over apple-skin tannins, opening further with the spices hinted on the nose, fresh dark fruits and fine extract sweetness.

2023

93 points, Vinoway Selection 2025

95 points, Luca Maroni

Gold, Berliner Wein Trophy 2024