Merlot

Vineyard and terroir

The wine is made from the third selection of Merlot grapes grown at Podere dei Blumeri. The vines are trained to bilateral Guyot on marl of Eocene origin. Yield is 60 q/ha.

Grapes

100% Merlot.

Vinification

The grapes are harvested manually in the first half of September. Fermentation lasts 10–12 days in stainless-steel tanks at 18 °C. Vinification in steel, together with comparatively restrained alcoholic and extractive potential, shapes a fresh expression of Friulian Merlot.

Ageing

Maturation takes place in stainless-steel tanks, followed by at least four months in bottle.

Technical data

The 2019 technical sheet gives 14.50% alcohol, 5.20 g/L total acidity and 3.00 g/L residual sugar.

Tasting profile

Ruby red. The nose combines morello cherry, wild strawberries and gentle balsamic nuances. The palate is soft and enveloping, with red berries, liquorice and spices.

Serving and pairing

Serve at 18 °C with poultry or red meat. In summer it can also be poured as an aperitif at 15 °C.

Label / history

Merlot has long been regarded as a central red variety in local Friulian wine culture. The first vintage was 1978.