Meneghetti Merlot 2023
Meneghetti Merlot 2023 is a dry, full-bodied red from Merlot (Istria, Croatia), in the rich, smooth reds style. Tannins are moderate and acidity moderate; oak influence is some. Good with duck, charcuterie, roast chicken, roast pork. Drink now or within 10 years (to about 2036). No need to decant. Sustainable farming is mentioned by the merchant. Critic score 93/100 (merchant-reported). Cheapest offer £18.70 at 8wines UK.
| Wine | Sweet | Body | From | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Costa Lazaridi Chateau Julia Merlot 2023 Costa Lazaridi · Macedonia | £18.52 | |||
| Zlaty Roh Merlot Cabernet 2022 Zlaty Roh · Small Carpathians | £18.52 | |||
| Inama Campo del Lago Merlot 2021 Inama · Veneto | £20.32 | |||
| Corte Medicea Atos 2021 La Bollina · Tuscany | £20.36 |
Drink it now or cellar for up to 10 years. No need to decant, but best to open it half an hour before service. Located in Bale, Croatia, the renowned Meneghetti winery produces excellent wines from its 10 hectares of sustainably managed vineyards, pruned using the Simonit & Sirch method. The estate also includes a luxurious hotel and restaurant, and is one of the most prestigious destinations for wine tourists in the area. The Merlot grapes come from the estate's vineyards, which surround the wine resort. Here, the vines benefit from ideal conditions thanks to the proximity to the sea and the red soils, rich in iron and minerals. Careful work in the vineyard and cellar ensures the production of an elegant wine that reflects the character of the Istrian peninsula. After vinification, the wine ages for 10 months in oak before resting for 10 extra months in the bottle. In the glass, the Meneghetti Merlot displays an intense ruby color with purple highlights. Its aromatic profile is broad and ripe, with fruity notes of plum, blackberry, blueberry, and small wild berries, followed by hints of sweet spices and flowers. On the palate, it is round and generous, fresh, and elegant. It has a soft texture, smooth tannins and a long, concentrated finish. With food, it is versatile; it pairs well with grilled meats and pasta with red sauces, but also works deliciously with roast duck or Istrian Prosciutto.