Lazio IGT Rosso Drusilla 2022 Tenuta San Leo

What kind of wine is it?

Drusilla Rosso by Tenuta San Leo is a red wine made with Merlot grapes grown in the Castelli Romani vineyards. Its style is distinguished by balance and structure, with soft tannins and a balanced palate that promotes elegant and immediate drinking. Vinification in stainless steel and bottle aging preserve the fruit's freshness and aromatic clarity, resulting in a red with mature aromas and well-integrated toasted notes, ideal with savory dishes.

Where does it come from?

The grapes come from the Castelli Romani , a hilly area of Lazio southeast of Rome, historically suited to viticulture. The vineyards enjoy moderate altitudes and good ventilation, with temperature swings that support regular ripening and clear aromatic profiles. The medium-textured soils, with clay and looser components, contribute to concentration and smoothness, supporting color, balance, and measured tannins. The result is a modern red, recognizable for its freshness and cleanliness.

How it is produced

The Merlot grapes are harvested between early and late September, and the bunches are selected for optimal phenolic ripeness. This is followed by cold maceration on the skins at around 7°C for 2-3 days, which helps gradually extract color and primary aromas. Alcoholic fermentation takes place in stainless steel at 25-26°C for approximately 20 days, with careful management of extraction to achieve present but not aggressive tannins. The wine completes malolactic fermentation and ages in the bottle, maintaining a fruit-focused profile without any stated oak aging.

Tasting notes

Drusilla Rosso is an intense ruby red with purple highlights, a sign of good extraction and youth. The nose reveals notes of ripe red fruit such as black cherry and cherry, with toasted nuances of cocoa and licorice. On the palate, it is dry, medium-full bodied, with soft tannins and a smooth progression. The finish is harmonious, with fruity and spicy aftertaste and a freshness that supports its drinkability throughout the meal.

What does it pair with?

Drusilla Rosso pairs easily with local cheeses and cured meats, thanks to its structure and rounded tannins that balance the savory flavors. It also pairs well with pasta dishes with meat sauce, baked pasta, and mushroom dishes, where the notes of black cherry and cocoa complement the roasted flavors of the cuisine. For a regional approach, it pairs well with porchetta di Ariccia and Roman-style lamb, while for a mixed platter, medium-aged and not-too-spicy cured meats are recommended to enhance the balance and finish.

When to serve it

This red wine is suitable for many occasions, from a casual dinner to Sunday lunch, whenever you're looking for a structured yet smooth glass. It's best served at 16–18°C in medium-sized glasses, and should be allowed to aerate for a few minutes after opening to enhance its red fruit profile and toasted notes. Decanting isn't mandatory, but it can benefit from a brief aeration if it's been stored for a long time. Thanks to its aging in stainless steel and bottle, it's ready to drink and can develop positively over the next few years if stored properly.