2013 San Leonardo

San Leonardo reported that 2013 was one of their most balanced years in the set of recent vintages, and from the bouquet alone, I can already say that I agree. Here I’m finding a classic expression of cool-climate Bordeaux varieties, with fresh blackberry and raspberry, complemented by peppery florals and wild herbs. Smoky minerals add even further depths. The sheer density of fruit is remarkable. Polished yet fleshy and ripe, juicy acids guide with gorgeous inner florals and mounting fine-grained tannins toward the long and youthfully structured finale. This is enjoyable to taste today, yet also well-positioned to mature beautifully for many decades in your cellar. Fans of San Leonardo shouldn’t be without the 2013.

Mid healthy crimson. Hint of green on the nose but proper wine with a structure and (just) ripe bordeaux grapes. Verging on underripe but it will probably age well. (JR)

The flagship wine from this celebrated Trentino estate was not produced in 2012. We do have the stunning 2013 San Leonardo on the market now. This vintage is large in scale and has immediate intensity, and I am somewhat surprised by the volume and seamless bouquet that appears this early in the game. This vintage shows balanced ripeness with plummy fruit aromas that are carefully contrasted against spice, leather and fine tobacco. The blend is Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenère and Merlot, and San Leonardo is always aged in barrique for four years (of which only 25% of the barrels are new). This is a bottle to keep long (extra long) in your cellar.