Gerardo Cesari 'Justo' Leggero Appassimento Veneto IGT, Italy

A refined expression of tradition and innovation from the heart of the Veneto region, the 2021 Gerardo Cesari ‘Jùsto’ Leggero Appassimento brings together the classic Corvina grape with Merlot in a modern reinterpretation of the appassimento method. This wine showcases the Cesari philosophy—balance, elegance, and approachability—delivering a wine that speaks to both connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.

Product Details:

• Region: Veneto IGT, Italy
• Grape Varieties: 60% Corvina, 40% Merlot
• Vintage: 2021
• ABV: 13.5%
• Vinification: 15-day maceration on the skins; malolactic fermentation in stainless steel
• Drying Process: 20-day light appassimento in boxes
• Refinement: Bottled shortly after vinification for immediate enjoyment
• Total Acidity: 5.3 g/L
• Dry Extract: 29.0 g/L
• Longevity: 5–10 years
• Decanting: Recommended 1 hour before serving

Sensory Description:

A deep, intense, and brilliant ruby red in the glass, this wine exudes an expressive bouquet of ripe cherry, plum, and red fruits, elegantly complemented by hints of vanilla and spice. On the palate, it is soft and velvety, with a very important structure, offering a rich mouthfeel and balanced profile thanks to the gentle drying technique. The harmonious integration of fruit and structure results in a smooth, approachable, yet characterful wine.

Winemaker's Background:

Founded in 1936, Gerardo Cesari is a historic and pioneering winery from Verona, recognized globally for elevating the profile of Amarone and Veronese wines. Under the leadership of Franco Cesari, the winery became one of the first to export Amarone to all five continents in the 1970s. Today, Cesari continues to blend traditional viticulture with innovative, sustainable practices, cultivating 107 hectares and producing over 1.6 million bottles annually. With winemaker Luigi Biemmi at the helm, the estate remains committed to elegance, harmony, and international appeal.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve at 16–18°C (60–64°F). This versatile red pairs beautifully with game meats, grilled and stewed dishes, and aged cheeses. Its rich structure and soft tannins also make it an excellent companion to roast pork, mature cheese boards, or hearty pasta dishes with bold, savory sauces.

Gerardo Cesari ‘Jùsto’ Leggero Appassimento 2021 exemplifies the art of balance—between freshness and concentration, tradition and modernity, elegance and drinkability. A wine “giusto” in every sense, it invites you to enjoy the nuanced craftsmanship of one of Veneto’s most storied producers.