The Frescobaldi family is one of Italy’s oldest and most influential wine families, with a winemaking history spanning more than 700 years, dating back to the early 14th century. The family has played a major role in the development of Tuscan fine wine, managing renowned estates throughout the region, including CastelGiocondo in Montalcino, Castello Nipozzano in Chianti Rufina and Castello Pomino near Florence.

Castello Pomino is one of Frescobaldi’s most historically significant estates. Located in the cool mountain landscape of Pomino, northeast of Florence, the estate sits at high elevations surrounded by forests, benefiting from cooler temperatures and significant diurnal variation. The estate has a pioneering connection with international grape varieties: in the 19th century, Leonia Frescobaldi introduced French grape varieties such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir to Pomino and developed innovative winemaking practices. Her achievements were recognised when the estate received a gold medal at the Paris Exhibition in 1878, establishing Pomino as an early centre for quality sparkling and white wine production in Tuscany. The Leonia Brut cuvée is named in her honour and represents Frescobaldi’s modern interpretation of Metodo Classico sparkling wine.

The grapes are harvested by hand in small crates during the cooler hours of the day to preserve freshness and aromatic intensity. The grapes undergo gentle pressing, followed by fermentation in stainless steel tanks, with a portion fermented in wood to add texture and complexity. The Chardonnay and Pinot Noir base wines are blended before undergoing secondary fermentation in bottle (Metodo Classico), followed by extended ageing on lees, riddling and disgorgement.

The 2021 Leonia Brut reflects a Burgundy-inspired Champagne style adapted to Tuscan mountain terroir. It combines Chardonnay’s elegance and freshness with Pinot Noir’s structure and depth. The wine shows a fine, persistent mousse with aromas of grapefruit, orange peel, yellow fruit, white flowers and broom, followed by more mature notes of pastry, bread crust, dried fruit and honey from lees ageing. On the palate, it is creamy yet fresh, with savoury minerality, bright acidity and a long, refined finish. 

" Wine Enthusiast praised Leonia for its elegant and polished style, noting aromas of white stone fruit, citrus zest and brioche. The palate showed flavours of yellow pear, golden apple, orange zest and bread crust, supported by refined bubbles and lively acidity. " -- Wine Enthusiast