About this wine
Vineyard and terroir
The estate’s Merlot vineyards are in Friuli, in northeastern Italy, among plains, mountains and plateaus formed over millions of years by Alpine tectonic and geomorphological processes. The complex, well-drained soils are mineral-rich, with high levels of lime and clay. Planting density and crop size are strictly controlled, with green pruning used when necessary.
Vinification
The grapes are harvested when ripe, after which the finest berries are selected and gently pressed. Maceration lasts 12–15 days. Malolactic fermentation takes place in stainless-steel tanks.
Ageing
In midwinter, the wine is transferred to small oak barrels and remains there until bottling in May.
Tasting profile
The aroma is intense and elegant, with notes of wild red berries. The palate is lively and characterful, with pronounced tannins.
Label / history
The Vistorta family farm, in the heart of western Friuli, has belonged to the Brandolini family since 1780. In 1800, after graduating from the University of Padua, Guido Brandolini returned to Vistorta, reorganised the estate and invested in modernising its winery.
The land surrounding Villa Vistorta now covers 220 ha. Brandino Brandolini, a graduate of the Texas University of Agricultural Sciences, has owned the estate since 1980. Drawing on experience gained at the Brandolini family’s Chateau Greysac property in Bordeaux, he introduced a French model of wine-business management and concentrated on red-wine production. Working with Georges Pauli of Chateau Gruaud Larose, he began planting new vineyards toward the end of 1980. Integrated with the existing plantings, these vineyards established Bordeaux Merlot at the Vistorta farm and gave the estate’s Italian wines French roots.
