Wines Vigneti delle Dolomiti San Leonardo - Villa Gresti di San Leonardo - 2017

The Villa Gresti di San Leonardo 2017 hails from the Vigneti delle Dolomiti IGT, located in the picturesque Trentino-Alto Adige region of northern Italy. Crafted by the acclaimed San Leonardo estate, this red wine is a masterful blend, predominately Merlot complemented by a dash of Carmenère—a structure inspired by classic Bordeaux but with an unmistakeable Italian elegance. The 2017 vintage is marked by its deep ruby hue, an expressive bouquet of ripe forest berries, plums, subtle tobacco, and balsamic notes entwined with gentle hints of spice. Careful vinification involves traditional fermentation followed by aging in French oak barrels, which imparts a polished tannic structure and a lingering, savoury finish.

The Trentino-Alto Adige region is renowned for its dramatic Alpine landscapes, with vineyards perched at varying altitudes beneath the Dolomite mountains. This unique terroir, a patchwork of mineral-rich soils and gravelly alluvium, imparts remarkable freshness and complexity to the wines. The climate is defined by cool nights and warm days, allowing for prolonged ripening periods that favour balance and aromatic precision. With a viticultural history dating back to ancient Roman times, this area merges Italian and Austrian influences, lending distinctiveness to its wines.

Villa Gresti’s sumptuous yet refined profile pairs beautifully with both traditional northern Italian dishes and international fare. It is especially suited to slow-cooked meats such as osso buco or braised lamb shanks, game dishes, or aged cheeses like Trentingrana. Mushroom risotto or a hearty polenta with beef ragù would also complement its richness and subtle spice. For a more regional touch, try it alongside speck or venison stew.

To fully appreciate its nuanced aromas and harmonious palate, serve this wine at 16-18°C. Consider decanting for an hour before serving to allow the expressive bouquet to open up. This vintage is drinking beautifully now but also has the structure to reward a few more years of cellaring.