Parker about San Leonardo 2003
After the disappointing 2002 vintage (that was not produced), the 2003 San Leonardo shows a greater degree of harmony and balance that I may not have initially expected. As you will remember, 2003 saw soaring, scorching temperatures that wreaked havoc on vineyards across Europe. But cool mountain breezes and deep diurnal shifts have helped to preserve the integrity of fruit on display here. The mouthfeel does not boast the same depth as San Leonardo's greatest vintages, but the bouquet shows immediate fruit, spice and grilled herbs. It must be said that this wine does not lack in acidity and this is an important point. The Guerrieri Gonzaga family opted to harvest a bit early and this proved an excellent decision for maintaining freshness. It's ready to drink now but could also last a few more years.
Description
Land | Italy |
Region | Trentino |
Rebsorten | Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenere, Merlot |
Alkoholgehalt | 13.50% |
Füllstand | Into Neck |
Verschlußart | Cork closure |
Kennzeichnung | Contains sulphites |
Farbe | Red |
Inverkehrbringer | Tenuta San Leonardo sas, Località San Leonardo 1, 38063 Avio, Italy |
Charakter | Dry |
Servierempfehlung | Decant at 16-18°C |
Trinkempfehlung | 2010 - 2038 |
Parker Punkte | 91 |
Jahrgang | 2003 |
Trentino, Italy 🇮🇹
Goes well with

San Leonardo 2003

The San Leonardo 2003, a classic Bordeaux blend from Northern Italy, is a wine of great elegance and finesse, even in a vintage characterized by heat and drought. The color is a deep ruby red with light garnet reflections, indicating the first signs of ripeness. The bouquet opens with a seductive complexity: blackcurrants, blackberries, and ripe plums combine with notes of tobacco, leather, and delicate herbs such as rosemary and bay leaves. Subtle hints of cedarwood and graphite add additional depth.
On the palate, the wine displays remarkable structure. The tannins are fine and well-integrated, while well-preserved acidity lends the wine freshness and elegance. The fruit aromas are accompanied by spicy and slightly earthy nuances, ensuring harmonious balance. The finish is long and smooth, characterized by hints of chocolate and subtle balsamic notes.
San Leonardo 2003 is a successful example of how the winery can still produce wines of great quality and exceptional balance in challenging vintages. A pleasure to drink now, but also showing potential for further development.