our Soil

Historically, this area has been an ideal environment for varieties like Cabernet, Merlot, Pinot Grigio and Lagrein, at least since the beginning of the 20th century and the reconstruction period that followed the phylloxera epidemic. Later Chardonnay and Pinot Nero were also introduced.

The area has its own specific "terroir", characterised by relatively unfertile, well-drained chalk and clay soil, and "mammeloni", river benchlands with sandy sediment that built up in stages through the lateral action of alluvial cones. It has long been home to the native and non-native vine types that today enable our winemakers to create truly great wines.

Many of the wines currently made on the estate present an unusually high proportion for Trentino of anthocyanins, and very strong bonding of tannins and anthocyanins. Polymerisation reaches very high levels. After one year's ageing, it has climbed to 50%, in comparison with a maximum of 30% for Italy as a whole, and 35-40% in Bordeaux. To enhance these characteristics, Tenuta San Leonardo and a number of other local producers have proposed a modification to the current Trentino DOC regulations, and the creation of a subzone with the denomination Campi Sarni.