Winery estate housed in a historic castle in Salento (Apulia), featuring a tuff cellar, a spacious barrel room and production focused on indigenous grape varieties such as Primitivo and Negroamaro.
The building known as Castello Monaci has historical origins dating back to the Renaissance/medieval period and takes its name from an ancient settlement of Basilian monks. Over the centuries the fortification’s use and ownership have changed several times, and it is now managed by the Memmo Seracca Guerrieri family, who have enhanced the historic residence by integrating winemaking, hospitality and events.
Production philosophy
It combines respect for native Salento grape varieties and the local terroir with the use of modern winery technologies: temperature-controlled vinification, ageing in barriques, and a focus on wine tourism through wine tours and a wine museum that showcases local traditions.
Terroir and vineyards
Located in the heart of Salento, in Contrada Monaci near Salice Salentino and San Pancrazio Salentino, the estate is set among vineyards and olive groves and is influenced by the proximity of the Ionian and Adriatic seas. The soils include tuffaceous formations typical of the area.
Awards and recognition
The winery’s wines have received positive ratings in international publications. Some flagship labels are cited in contexts that indicate national recognition; the winery is also recognized for awards and mentions related to hospitality and its location.
Characteristics
Grape varieties
Primitivo
Negroamaro
Malvasia Nera di Lecce
Verdeca
Hectares
200.0
What makes it distinctive
Historic castle converted into a wine estate and event venue.
Cellar carved into tuff rock, housing more than 1,000 barriques and numerous French oak casks.
Vineyards of indigenous grape varieties: Primitivo, Negroamaro, Malvasia Nera, Verdeca.
Wine experience activities and the Museo Merum for wine tourism.
Vineyard area stated on the official website: approximately 200 hectares.