Rubicone IGP Merlot 2022 Enio Ottaviani

What type of wine it is

Enio Ottaviani's Merlot is a still red wine made exclusively from Merlot grapes cultivated in the San Clemente area. This Romagna red stands out for its structured and harmonious style, resulting from a winemaking process that includes fermentation in cement tanks followed by ageing in barriques. The sensory profile is balanced and deep, with a precise integration between varietal fruity notes and spicy nuances from the ageing process.

Origin

The vineyards are located in the San Clemente area, in the Rimini region, on slopes with optimal exposure to the south and southeast. The loamy-clay soil gives the wine volume and consistency and supports the structure of the grapes during growth. The proximity to the Adriatic Sea tempers the local climate, creating ideal conditions for the ripening of Merlot and lending a territorial character that combines concentration and freshness.

How it is produced

Harvesting is done by hand to ensure careful selection of the best bunches for vinification. After pressing, the must ferments in cement tanks, a technical choice aimed at preserving the freshness and authentic aromas of the grape variety. This is followed by a period of ageing in barriques, a phase that enriches the flavor texture and bouquet without overwhelming the fruit's natural expression.

Tasting notes

It shows an intense red color with garnet highlights, an appearance that reveals its consistency through close-set arches and slow tears on the glass. On the nose, it offers a complex aromatic spectrum, intertwining fruity hints, floral notes, and a distinctive spicy component. On the palate, it reveals a harmonious and balanced structure, with a flavor progression that confirms the wine's solidity and the richness of its olfactory sensations.

Pairings

Thanks to its structure and broad aromatic profile, this red pairs ideally with grilled lamb chops and mature cheeses. It is perfect with rustic dishes and enhances rich preparations such as tagliatelle with ragù or succulent red meat-based courses. Its spicy notes also make it suitable for regional pairings like flatbread with cured meats, where it effectively supports robust flavors.

Serving occasions

This Merlot is the ideal choice to accompany hearty meals and intense courses, where a glass of good structure is required. It shines at social gatherings, especially when paired with grilled meats or aged cheeses that emphasize its balance. The precision of its ageing also makes it suitable for formal settings, offering a refined and complex tasting experience.