Friuli Colli Orientali DOC Merlot Vigne 50 Anni 2020 Le Vigne di Zamò

What type of wine it is

Le Vigne di Zamò Merlot is a still red wine that faithfully represents the Friuli Colli Orientali. Made from Merlot grapes, it reveals a full-bodied style, distinguished by notes of ripe fruit and spicy nuances. Vinification begins with fermentation and maceration in wooden vats and open tonneaux at a controlled temperature. Subsequent malolactic fermentation and aging in barriques ensure a defined structure. In the glass, it results in a harmonious and persistent Merlot, ideal for accompanying intense recipes.

Where it comes from

The grapes used for this red wine come from vineyards in Manzano, located in the picturesque Friuli Colli Orientali. This hilly landscape offers optimal sun exposure and constant ventilation, which are fundamental conditions for perfect grape ripening. The area's microclimate and terrain morphology support ideal aromatic concentration, necessary to obtain a wine of great structure. Its location in this specific subzone ensures a distinctive territorial identity, easily recognizable.

How it is produced

Harvesting is done by hand-picking to preserve the full integrity of the bunches. Fermentation takes place at controlled temperature in wooden vats and open tonneaux for about twenty days, a process that helps extract color and aromas. After alcoholic fermentation, the wine undergoes malolactic fermentation in barriques, where it continues to mature for eighteen months. The process goes on with a brief period in a large cask for two months and ends with an essential bottle aging of twenty-four months.

Tasting notes

The glass shows a deep ruby red color, evidence of the long maceration. The nose releases clear scents of red fruit, accompanied by elegant hints of leather and cocoa. Evolvement in wood enriches the aroma with pleasing coffee notes and spicy nuances. On the palate, it reveals great harmony, supported by a well-integrated tannic structure offering balance. The long aromatic persistence recalls the fruit and toasted notes perceived on the nose and grants a defined finish.

Food pairings

This label is perfect paired with game and grilled red meats, thanks to its body that can stand up to bold flavors. The richness on the palate matches well with flavorful dishes, where spicy notes balance slow-cooked preparations. It also pairs excellently with well-aged cheeses, as it balances fat and tannins perfectly. For a regional match, it's ideal with Friulian dishes, especially hearty frico or traditional meat main courses.

When to serve it

This red is perfect for occasions demanding great depth, from an important dinner to a cheese tasting. It's recommended to pour and allow it proper time to breathe in the glass, so fruit and spicy components fully express themselves. Thanks to the wood maturation and long rest in glass, it boasts notable structure for aging. If correctly stored, it offers excellent evolution over time and delivers increasing complexity for over a decade.