▴ San Leonardo 2019

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San Leonardo 2019

I often wonder, if this estate had been based in Bolgheri, not Trentino, whether it would have received the worldwide attention it truly deserves, sitting up alongside Sassicaia and Ornellaia. It consistently proves itself to be one of Italy’s greatest Bordeaux-type blends, and while I have praised many of its vintages, the 2019 is truly exceptional. First, there is the enticing aroma, highly perfumed with notes of spice, cloves, and old-fashioned tea roses, mesmerising. On the palate, there’s a core of dense, fresh black fruit, cigar box, graphite, black pepper and hints of burnt orange, while silky tannins hold everything in place, creating wave upon wave of savoury, juicy forest fruit. Most impressive of all is the harmony in the wine, reminding me of some of the great vintages of Bordeaux. This is an outstanding triumph for San Leonardo.

Review March 2025, SK