Merlot di Vistorta Friuli Grave DOC 2009

Vineyards

The Vistorta estate, located in the Friuli Grave DOC region, benefits from gravelly alluvial soils that provide excellent drainage, a key factor in producing complex and elegant Merlot. The estate enjoys a continental climate, with warm days and cool nights allowing the grapes to achieve perfect ripeness while retaining acidity. Low yields further enhance the quality and intensity of the fruit. Since 2009, the estate has embraced organic farming, reflecting its dedication to sustainability and terroir expression.

Winemaking

Grapes were completely destemmed and softly crushed. 40% of the harvested grapes underwent cold maceration to preserve freshness and complexity. Alcoholic fermentation lasted 7-8 days at a controlled temperature of 28°-30°C, followed by 20 days of post-fermentative maceration at 22°-25°C to enhance structure and flavour extraction. Malolactic fermentation occurred naturally at controlled temperatures. The wine was aged for 12 months in French tight-grained oak barrels, with 40% new, 30% one-year-old, and 30% two-year-old barriques, resulting in a refined structure and layers of complexity.

Appearance

The wine presents a deep garnet colour with brick hues, showcasing its graceful evolution over time.

Nose

The bouquet is expressive and layered, offering mature aromas of dried red fruits, wild berries, and subtle earthy notes. Secondary nuances of leather, cedar, and sweet spices add depth, reflecting the wine's age.

Palate

The palate is full-bodied and harmonious, with softened tannins that now lend a velvety texture. Flavours of stewed plums, redcurrant, and black cherries are intertwined with hints of tobacco, cocoa, and a touch of savoury minerality. The finish is long and elegant, marked by a lingering complexity.

Food pairing

This mature Merlot pairs beautifully with rich pasta dishes, slow-cooked lamb, roasted meats, and aged cheeses. It is also a perfect match for game dishes or truffle-infused risotto.

Background story

The Brandolini d'Adda family, who have served as military leaders for Venice since the 1700s, acquired the historic Vistorta estate, which features a captivating 13th-century borgo. Over the centuries, the family has continuously updated the estate, maintaining its timeless elegance and grandeur to this day.

In the 1980s, Count Brandino Brandolini d'Adda deepened his passion for viticulture during agronomy studies in Texas and a formative stint at Château Greysac in Bordeaux. Inspired by Bordeaux's Merlot-focused viticulture, Brandino returned to Vistorta with a vision to specialise in Merlot. Collaborating with winemaker George Pauli, this strategic shift soon brought the estate prestigious recognition. Today, Vistorta’s Merlot is recognised as one of Italy’s finest red wines.