Grape Varieties
85% Sangiovese 10% Merlot 5% Other red grapes
Winery
Cantine Leonardo was founded in 1961, and its first vintage was 1965. At the outset the co-operative sold wine in bulk, and it was only in 1971 that they began selling bottled wines. The cooperative has approximately 150 members, whose vineyards are located on the hilly areas around Vinci and Cerreto Guidi. The ethos of quality that has spread through every aspect of Leonardo’s operation since the arrival of Alberto Antonini as consultant winemaker at the end of 1996 remains a key element in their success.
Winemaker
Ricardo Pucci
Viticulture
Small, hilly area in the commune of Vinci, Cerreto Guidi and a limited number of surrounding communes close to Empoli, half way between Florence and Pisa in the Arno valley. The low altitude of the vineyards gives robust wines, while the proximity of the sea ensures good perfume and balance.
Winemaking & Maturation
Maceration on the skins lasted 8-10 days and was followed by fermentation at a controlled temperature of 27/28°C. After racking, the wine was allowed to complete malolactic fermentation. It was subsequently aged in French oak casks for 12 months followed by a further 3 months in bottle before release.
Tasting Note
Good depth of ruby-purple colour, with perfumes of ripe, mature cherries and currants, lightly spiced with notes of cinnamon and vanilla. On the palate it has lovely balance between good structure, rounded, silky fruit and a lifted finish. Great length and a blackberry pie perfume on the finish.
