2003 Rosso Ca Del Merlo

The 2003 Ca' del Merlo opens with dusty mineral notes and delicately dried aromas of rose petal, wilted violets, kitchen spice, tar, leather, tobacco, dried asphalt and light smoke. This is lovely wine and the magic Quintarelli touch has worked wonders with the hot 2003 fruit. The mouthfeel is sleek and compact. Drink 2014-2020. In the years leading up to "Bepi" Quintarelli's death in 2012 from Parkinson-s disease, there was a lot of confusion over who was managing affairs at the winery. Understandably, getting samples was difficult and visitor requests often went unanswered. Giuseppe Quintarelli had been sick for a long time and his survivors include four daughters and a slew of grandchildren. More than a year after his death, it seems a new chapter has commenced. The winery has a new United States importer (Kermit Lynch) and Quintarelli's heirs Francesco and Lorenzo (both grandsons) with Giampaolo (son-in-law) are communicative and excellent professionals. I hope the Quintarelli star will continue to rise. I have reviewed the 2003 Amarone Classico here. The 2004 will be released in early 2014. Importer: Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant, www.kermitlynch.com