Lecce’s countryside beckons with an enticing wine tasting and rural experience that can’t be missed. Just a short drive from the city, Casina Spezzaferri offers a guided journey through picturesque vineyards and gardens. Visitors will discover indigenous grapes, forage for wild herbs, and explore an ancient wine production site – all while savoring exceptional local wines paired with traditional delicacies. This immersive experience captures the essence of Salento’s enological heritage and vibrant countryside. What secrets await those who venture beyond Lecce’s walls?
Key Points
- Experience an immersive journey through Salento’s picturesque countryside, just 10 minutes from Lecce, at the Casina Spezzaferri estate.
- Discover the unique indigenous grape varieties of the region, including Primitivo, Negroamaro, and Malvasia Nera, during a guided wine tasting.
- Forage for wild herbs and learn about their influence on local winemaking and cuisine, deepening your appreciation for the region’s terroir.
- Explore the estate’s historical wine production site and uncover the rich heritage and evolution of traditional winemaking practices in Salento.
- Indulge in a tasting of exceptional local wines, paired with traditional Salento delicacies, for an authentic culinary experience.
Immerse Yourself in Salento’s Countryside
Nestled just 10 minutes from the captivating city of Lecce, Casina Spezzaferri invites you to learn about the enchanting Salento countryside.
Nestled just 10 minutes from Lecce, Casina Spezzaferri invites you to learn about the enchanting Salento countryside.
This historic country house offers a guided journey through its vineyards and gardens, where you’ll discover the region’s indigenous grapes and learn about traditional wine-making practices.
Forage for wild herbs and explore the ancient wine production site, all while enjoying a tasting of exceptional local wines paired with traditional delicacies.
Relax in the secret garden, surrounded by nature, history, and the welcoming atmosphere of this working farm.
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Discover Indigenous Grape Varieties
As you explore the vineyards at Casina Spezzaferri, the knowledgeable guides will introduce you to the indigenous grape varieties that thrive in the Salento region. Discover unique grapes like Primitivo, Negroamaro, and Malvasia Nera, each with their own distinct flavors and winemaking histories. The region’s unique terroir, with its calcareous soils and Mediterranean climate, gives these grapes their distinctive character.
| Indigenous Grape | Characteristics |
| — | — |
| Primitivo | Deep ruby color, bold flavors of plum and black cherry |
| Negroamaro | Inky hue, notes of blackberry, coffee, and spice |
| Malvasia Nera | Aromatic, floral notes, medium-bodied structure |
Tasting these local varietals will immerse you in the authentic flavors of Salento.
Forage for Wild Herbs and Learn Their Uses
After the guided tour of the vineyards, participants get the chance to forage for wild herbs that grow throughout the estate.
Under the guidance of the knowledgeable staff, they’ll learn to identify and gather an array of aromatic plants. From fennel and rosemary to wild thyme and oregano, these herbs have long been used in local wine-making and cuisine.
Participants discover how the distinct flavors of the Salento region are influenced by these naturally occurring botanicals.
It’s a hands-on experience that deepens their appreciation for the local terroir and traditional practices.
Explore the Ancient Wine Production Site
With their foraging adventure complete, participants make their way to the estate’s ancient wine production site.
Here, they learn about the historical techniques used to create the region’s exceptional wines. The guide explains the traditional methods, from grape pressing to barrel aging, providing insights into how these time-honored practices have evolved over the centuries.
Visitors are captivated by the stories of the site’s rich heritage and the enduring dedication to quality that has been passed down through generations of winemakers.
The experience offers a unique window into Salento’s enological tradition.
More Great Tours NearbyEnjoy a Tasting of Exceptional Local Wines
The wine tasting experience at Casina Spezzaferri is a delightful culmination of the vineyard exploration.
Visitors are invited to sample three exceptional local wines, each paired with traditional Salento delicacies. The tasting showcases the region’s enogastronomic heritage:
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Savor the bold, full-bodied red wine made from Negroamaro grapes.
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Enjoy the crisp, aromatic white wine crafted from Verdeca grapes.
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Delight in the sweet, dessert-style wine made from Primitivo di Manduria grapes.
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Pair the wines with local cheeses, cured meats, and olive oil-dipped breads.
The tasting allows guests to enjoy Salento’s centuries-old winemaking traditions.
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Relax in the Secret Garden
Nestled within the serene grounds of Casina Spezzaferri lies a secret garden, a tranquil oasis where visitors can unwind and enjoy the rich history and natural beauty of the Salento region.
Surrounded by verdant vegetation, the garden offers a peaceful respite from the day’s activities. Guests can stroll through the lush greenery, admiring the ancient olive trees and savoring the scent of the wild herbs.
It’s the perfect spot to relax with a glass of the estate’s exceptional wines, reflecting on the cultural traditions and winemaking heritage that permeate every corner of this enchanting place.
Experience Intimate and Personalized Engagement
Why does this intimate, personalized experience set Casina Spezzaferri apart? The setting of this historic country house, with its small group tours, fosters a unique, immersive encounter.
Visitors can expect:
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Engaging interactions with the passionate owners, Giorgia and Francesco, who share their deep knowledge of the region’s winemaking traditions.
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Opportunities to participate in hands-on activities like foraging for wild herbs and exploring the ancient wine production site.
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A relaxed atmosphere that allows guests to truly appreciate the countryside’s natural beauty and charm.
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Personalized attention that makes each visitor feel like a welcomed guest, not just another tourist.
Explore Salento’s Enogastronomic Traditions
What makes the Salento region’s enogastronomic traditions so captivating? At Casina Spezzaferri, visitors can enjoy these rich cultural heritage.
The Salento region’s enogastronomic traditions captivate visitors who enjoy the rich cultural heritage at Casina Spezzaferri.
They’ll tour vineyards, foraging for wild herbs used in local wine-making. At the ancient wine production site, they’ll learn historical techniques.
Tasting three exceptional wines paired with traditional delicacies, guests savor Salento’s flavors. It’s a sensory journey through the countryside, blending ancient charm with a working farm atmosphere.
The intimate setting allows for personal engagement, whether it’s meeting the winery owner or hearing the passionate stories of Giorgia and Francesco.
Ask Away
Is Transportation Provided to and From the Experience?
No, transportation is not provided for this experience. Guests are expected to make their own way to Casina Spezzaferri, which is located 10 minutes from Lecce. The experience itself lasts 2 hours, providing an immersive journey into Salento’s countryside.
Can the Wine Tasting Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?
The wine tasting can accommodate dietary restrictions. Guests should notify the staff of any needs when booking, and the team will work to provide suitable food pairings that align with individual dietary requirements.
What Is the Minimum/Maximum Group Size for the Experience?
The experience can accommodate groups ranging from 2 to 8 people, ensuring an intimate setting for personal engagement with the winery owners and a sensory journey through Salento’s countryside.
Are There Any Child-Friendly Activities Included in the Tour?
The experience doesn’t explicitly mention child-friendly activities. However, the intimate setting and focus on natural elements like foraging for herbs and exploring the vineyards may appeal to families with children who enjoy the outdoors.
Are Pets Allowed to Accompany Guests During the Experience?
Pets are not explicitly mentioned as allowed on the tour. It’s best to contact the tour provider to inquire about their pet policy, as they may have certain restrictions or accommodations for guests who wish to bring their furry companions.
Final Words
At Casina Spezzaferri, visitors can indulge in a captivating wine tasting journey that delves into Salento’s rich enological heritage. From foraging for wild herbs to exploring an ancient wine production site, this immersive experience showcases the region’s vibrant countryside and offers a chance to savor exceptional local wines paired with traditional delicacies. It’s a truly authentic and personalized rural adventure.
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