1997 Miani Merlot

The 1997 Merlot (magnum) is remarkable for the integrity of its fruit and its overall freshness. This muscular Merlot flows with the essence of graphite, minerals, grilled herbs, spices and dark fruit. The 1997 is perhaps the most unctuous, opulent Merlot in Miani's history. Although tertiary notes have begun to emerge, the wine will continue to age nicely on its sheer density and looks to have at least another decade of very fine drinking to offer. The 1997 Merlot captures the peak of Pontoni's search for muscle and extraction in his wines. One might argue that the 1997 is a touch monolithic, but at this level that is pretty much splitting hairs. The 1997 Merlot saw a relatively lengthy fermentation and the various lots spent 30-33 months in French oak.

The blockbuster 1997 Merlot (aged in 100% new oak) is an astonishing example, but from Friuli, it is even more noteworthy. The color is a saturated dark purple. The nose offers an amazing array of jammy black cherry fruit, smoke, berries, and sweet toast. Thick and full-bodied, with a long, nuanced finish, this exuberant, youthful Merlot should be at its peak in 4-5 years, and last until 2010. Kudo's to both Miani and his consulting oenologist, Roberto Cipresso. Importer: A Christopher Cannan Selection, Europvin USA, Watertown, MA; tel. (617) 924-7620