Ontario struggles with a reasonably priced Merlot. Good Merlots are not easy finds in Ontario. My favourite is the Merlot from Two Sisters in Niagara-on-the-Lake but at $60 a bottle few are willing to pony up at that price.
So we look to Italy for a reasonably priced Merlot. We find an Italian Merlot from Azienda Agricola Marina Danieli from Friuli at $21.
The Merlot was hand harvested and destemmed and aged in part in stainless steel and French oak for at least two years before bottling.
Aroma: Black cherry, blueberry, cassis, root beer and a hint of cloves. No suggestion here leading to a conclusion of lushness and plushness.
Palate: Chalky tannins. Raspberry, straw, cocoa and thoroughly and lightly intertwined with spice. Moderately long finish. The acid is in the background but its detectability is worrisome.
Personality: I deserve some of your attention as my quality is not readily apparent. Much of my quality is not flashing bright on your taste buds or on the nose. You’ll have to concentrate to pick up my subtleties. I am far removed from my Cali relatives and strangely my muted approach may make a comparison to Ontario Merlots somewhat possible but at this price point and quality I leave Ontario far behind and this has nothing to do with being Italian.
Food Match: Eggplant Bolognese.
Cellarbility: Drink up to 2025-year end.
Price: $21 CDN.
RKS 2024 Wine Rating: 87/100. 91 Eric Guido at vinous.com
(Marina Danieli Friuli Colli Orientali 2018 Merlot, DOC Fruili Colli Orientali, 750 mL, 13%).
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