At a glance

Producer

Tenuta San Leonardo

Region

Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy

Grape variety

Blend (primarily Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenère, Merlot, Cabernet Franc)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$85-$120

Tasting profile

Red and black fruits (blackcurrant, plum) with hints of tobacco, dark chocolate, and earthy minerality. Subtle spicy oak influence.

Evolution: Over the next 5-10 years, tertiary aromas of leather, tobacco, forest floor, and dried herbs will become more pronounced.

At peak: A complex, elegant wine with harmonious integration of fruit, earth, and mature spice notes.

Structure

Acidity

Moderate to high acidity providing freshness and longevity

Tannins

Firm yet ripe tannins, fine-grained

Alcohol

Approximately 13.5%-14.0%

Aging potential

Excellent, suitable for 20+ years of cellaring

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2048

Optimal window

2023 to 2051

Current status

Approaching prime drinking, retaining excellent aging potential

Current condition

The 2016 vintage is currently showing vibrant fruit with well-integrated structure and will continue to evolve gracefully.

The 2016 vintage is known for balance and concentration in the Trentino region, ideal for this blend’s structure. High-quality fruit and meticulous winemaking support a drinking window extending 25+ years from vintage.

Food pairing

Pairs well with roasted game (venison, wild boar), grilled red meats, mature hard cheeses, and hearty Italian dishes.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften tannins and allow complex aromatics to develop

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Implements water conservation techniques, integrated pest management; uses renewable energy sources at the estate; focuses on eco-friendly packaging

Tenuta San Leonardo adheres to several sustainable farming practices within a Mediterranean environment, minimizing chemical inputs and managing natural resources responsibly. While not certified organic/biodynamic, their commitment to sustainability covers energy use and packaging innovations. Carbon footprint is moderated by local production but increased by export logistics.