2005 Langhe Merlot Vigneto Fontanazza Pissotta

Voerzio's 2005 Merlot, arguably the rarest bird in this lineup, is quite expressive. Naturally in a cool vintage like 2005, the more savory, mineral side of Merlot is what comes through most. Sweet tobacco, mocha, herb, black cherry, graphite and French oak are some of the signatures. The French oak is a bit dominant because of the wine's mid-weight structure, and yet the Merlot is very nicely balanced, especially considering that 2005 was hardly an optimal vintage for making Merlot in Piedmont.