The lovely 2001 San Leonardo is a wine in its adolescence phase. Its pedigree is cemented, but its future is still open to chance. This was an excellent vintage that saw pre-harvest rains and warm, dry weather once the fruit had reached optimal ripeness. With this vintage, you begin to get some of the younger aromas that distinguish this great red wine from the far north of Italy. Red cherry and blackberry are followed by chocolate, spice and moist leather. The wine is more immediate, modern and "international" with soft tannins and thick extraction. It opens with a bang and follows through to the end of the palate with the same generous intensity. I’d suggest parking this wine in your cellar for up to ten years or more.Robert Parker Wine Advocate | 95 RPThe 2001 San Leonardo is showing depths of ripe black cherry and plum with rich brown spice, offset by hints of sage, smoky minerals and dried florals. The silkiest of textures give way to a gorgeous set of polished red and black fruits, riding a core of balanced acids. Fine tannins slowly mount toward the long and structured close with a tart tug of sour berries and savory spice. The 2001 is a total classic, following a number of warm and dry years. Still showing quite youthful today, the 2001 reveals only early signs of maturity maintaining so much potential. I love it. I tasted this bottle over the course of two days and got better the longer it was open.Vinous Media | 93 VMRich blackcurrant nose with enough cut to resemble a St Julien; assertive but with no greenness, Moderate tannins, but zesty and lively too, perky yet harmonious and well balanced. Still youthful, energetic and long.Decanter | 93 DECThis is a gorgeous and linear wine that boasts beautiful layers of black currant, tar, asphalt, drying mineral, green spice, curry powder and licorice. Made from a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot, this wine has aged well over the years and promises additional longevity thanks to its bright acidity and the integrity of its fruit.Wine Enthusiast | 93 WEA fresh cabernet with beautiful chocolate, berry and cedar aromas and flavors. Medium to full body, firm tannins and a crisp finish. Delicious all around. Still drinking beautifully.James Suckling | 91 JSA Bordeaux-style blend, with subtle berry and vanilla character. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a medium finish. Soft and caressing. Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenère and Merlot. Best after 2009. 7,915 cases made, 800 cases imported.Wine Spectator | 90 WS
