San Leonardo Vigneti delle Dolomiti 2019 (750ML)

98 JS / 98 DE / 96 VM

#31 James Suckling Top 100 Italian 2024
#56 James Suckling Top 100 2024
#67 Vinous Top 100 2024

The cool profile of this wine is clear from the fresh and spicy aromas of red currants and blackcurrants, leafy lightness, bell peppers and leather, with hints of smoke. The complexity of the nose is supported by an elegant palate (don’t look for power here), with a structure of filigreed tannins, crisp, integrated acidity, a medium body and a long, super savory aftertaste reminiscent of dark cherries. Drinkable now, but better from 2034. - James Suckling

The 2019 opens with the most gorgeous, complex fragrance of sage, menthol and clove, slightly creamy black berries, damp earth and spice. In the mouth it's really intense, textured and precise; a core of ripe black berries and some red fruit touches, framed by wood, tobacco and fine, supple tannins. There's a ferrous, saline vein coursing through the centre, and it reaches a lingering finish showcasing sapid dark berries, balsamic herbs and gentle spice, evolving into fresh and dried cherry as it strides away into the sunset. Generous yet beautifully poised, this is among the finest vintages of Tenuta San Leonardo so far. - JB, Decanter

The 2019 San Leonardo is impossible to ignore, embodying everything I love about this distinctly northern Italian Bordeaux blend. Masses of white pepper, sage, incense, sandy earth and fresh tobacco give way to dusty red currants. This is a model of elegance yet salty and savory to the core, with mineral-laden red and black fruits that flow across silky textures. The 2019 finishes classically dry with a crunchy tannic bite yet maintains an impossible freshness as savory herbal tones slowly fade. This is stunning, recalling the absolute top vintages I’ve ever tasted from San Leonardo.

Lovers of Bordeaux blends, especially cool-climate interpretations, owe it to themselves to experience San Leonardo. For decades, this has been the benchmark red of Trentino, possessing the ability to mature into a Grand Vin of Italy. Even with the onset of global warming, San Leonardo has maintained remarkable balance and a classical build, perfectly exemplified by the 2019. - EG, Vinous Media