Vigneti delle Dolomiti IGT Rosso 2020 San Leonardo

What kind of wine it is

San Leonardo is a red wine from the Vigneti delle Dolomiti, made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Carménère, and Merlot in the far south of Trentino. It is a Bordeaux-inspired blend, boasting an elegant and structured profile, built on fine tannins and good balance. Fermentation takes place in concrete tanks with a maceration of 12–15 days, and the wine ages for an extended period in French oak barrels, both barriques and tonneaux, offering an intense and well-defined profile.

Where it comes from

The grapes come from the vineyards of San Leonardo, situated in the far south of Trentino, within the ancient walls of a monastery. The vines are planted between 120 and 300 meters above sea level, facing from South-West to North-West in conditions that encourage gradual ripening. The soils vary by grape variety: light and sandy for Cabernet Sauvignon and Carménère, clayey and well-drained for Merlot. The vines are 25–75 years old.

How it is produced

Fermentation occurs spontaneously in small concrete tanks, with skin maceration for 12–15 days and frequent pump-overs. After racking, the wine undergoes malolactic fermentation in the same tanks and remains for a few months to settle. Aging lasts 24 months: part in barriques and part in medium-toast French oak tonneaux, using new, second- and third-passage wood. After blending, the wine rests for at least another 24 months in the cellar.

Tasting notes

It presents an intense ruby red color with garnet highlights. The bouquet is complex, with hints of berries, balsamic notes, and nuances of undergrowth, tobacco, and aromatic herbs. On the palate, it combines liveliness and elegance, with faithful correspondence to the nose. The tannins are refined and well-integrated, supporting a deep, persistent, and well-balanced finish.

Food pairings

It pairs well with structured meat dishes, particularly roasts, game, and braised meats, where its tannic structure and aromatic intensity enhance texture and succulence. The wine's precision also allows it to complement rich preparations without losing its definition. With long cooking times, you’ll find echoes of tobacco, undergrowth, and aromatic herbs.

When to serve it

Perfect when you desire a structured red wine with an elegant touch, suitable for lunches and dinners with meat courses. The freshness and precision of the tannins make it enjoyable even when young, while its overall structure and extended aging support medium- to long-term cellaring. Served in a large glass, it accompanies main courses and slow-cooked dishes, highlighting its balance and persistence.