What kind of wine is Collio Merlot DOC 2019 - Due del Monte?

The Collio Merlot DOC 2019 - Due del Monte is an elegant and harmonious red wine, an authentic expression of the Friulian territory. Made from selected Merlot grapes in the heart of Collio, a renowned wine-growing area, this wine stands out for its balance between softness and structure. The Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC) guarantees high quality standards and respect for local enological traditions. The result is a medium-full-bodied red, with a sincere and refined character, capable of combining pleasantness and complexity.

Vintage details

The 2019 vintage in Collio was particularly favorable for Merlot. The mild climate and temperature variations between day and night allowed for a gradual ripening of the grapes, enhancing aromas and aromatic concentration. The harvest, carried out manually in early October, ensured healthy and perfectly ripe grapes, an ideal basis for a wine that focuses on balance and intensity.

Winemaking and aging

After harvesting, the grapes are destemmed and subjected to fermentation in steel tanks at controlled temperatures, a fundamental step to preserve the freshness of the fruit and control tannin extraction. Maceration on the skins lasts about two weeks, to obtain balanced color and aromatic complexity. Aging then continues for 24 months, 50% of which is in new French oak barriques and the remainder in second-use barrels. This double aging gives the wine depth and a pleasant harmony between fruity notes and spicy nuances.

Tasting notes

Color

Visually, the Collio Merlot DOC 2019 - Due del Monte presents an intense ruby red, lively and bright, which with time tends towards garnet hues, a sign of a natural evolutionary process.

Nose

The bouquet is rich and inviting: it opens with aromas of ripe cherry and plum, followed by light notes of vanilla, tobacco, and sweet spices. The wood aging contributes to an elegant aromatic complexity, without overpowering the fruit but enhancing its depth.

Palate

On the palate, it is soft and enveloping, with fine and smooth tannins. The structure is balanced by a pleasant freshness that makes every sip harmonious and persistent. The finish is long, with hints of red fruit and light balsamic notes that invite a second glass.

Food pairings with Collio Merlot DOC 2019 - Due del Monte

Versatile and refined, this Merlot excellent accompanies numerous Italian dishes. Perfect for convivial dinners or special occasions, it is best enjoyed with:

• Grilled or roasted red meats
• Flavorful stews and braises
• Aged hard cheeses
• Pasta with ragù or rich sauces

A particularly successful pairing? With a beef fillet with green pepper or a porcini mushroom risotto.

Storage and aging – how to store Collio Merlot DOC 2019 - Due del Monte wine

To best preserve the qualities of this wine, it is recommended to store it horizontally, in a cool, dry place, away from sources of light and heat. The ideal storage temperature is between 12°C and 16°C.

The Collio Merlot DOC 2019 - Due del Monte is already enjoyable today, but thanks to its structure and wood aging, it can evolve positively for another 5-8 years. With time, it will develop softer and more complex notes, rewarding those who can wait.