This 100% Merlot comes from the largest wine estate in Northern Italy, rooted in a landscape where vines have flourished since Roman times. Situated in the Friuli DOC Aquileia appellation in the northeastern corner of the country, it forms part of the Zonin family’s extensive portfolio of estates.
Over the past twenty years, the estate has embraced a sustainable philosophy, introducing green manuring, using low-impact pesticides, supporting pollinator populations and maintaining untouched green areas to encourage the return of native wildlife.
The 2023 vintage spent time maturing in oak barrels, following in the footsteps of earlier releases that have earned accolades such as the Mundus Vini gold medal.
There is a lovely aromatic presence of strawberry, leading into a sweep of red fruit flavours, from strawberries to currants, accented by a slight herbaceous lift. What sets it apart is the velvet-like feel on the tongue. Despite a robust 14% alcohol, it remains light, with only the gentlest presence of tannin and a subtle flicker of spice on the finish. This is a soft and elegant wine, offering a clear and unadulterated expression of Merlot.
Available for £25.95 from Shepherds Food in Primrose Hill.
