Rizzardi Clos Roareti Verona Merlot 2017

Drink now through 2028. No need to decant before serving.

This single vineyard Merlot is made with grapes from the charming century-old walled vineyard of Rovereti in the Negrar subregion of Valpolicella. Only made in the very best vintages, the Clos Roareti gains its opulent character from the warm microclimate and pebbly clay soils which are ideally suited to the Merlot grape.

Following the harvest this limited production wine is fermented in temperature-controlled tanks for 10 days. The wine is then matured in oak barrels which are 33% new for a period of 24 months to add extra complexity and a delicious sweet spice character to the Merlot. On the nose you’ll immediately notice the classic Merlot character of soft ripe berries and toasty hints from the oak. The first sip reveals a generous full body, velvety mouthfeel and rich blackberry jam flavours carefully balanced by a touch of freshness.

Thanks to the firm structure, extended maturation in oak and intense flavour profile, this fine Merlot is an excellent candidate for cellar ageing. If stored in good conditions, it should continue to develop and evolve over the next decade or so. It is also ideal to drink now alongside a prime steak, wild boar or fillet of venison.