Le Merle Merlot Valle d`Aosta DOP

A Merlot that surprises: From the Valle d'Aosta, one of the coolest and smallest wine regions in Italy, comes a red wine with real depth and remarkable drinkability.

The Aosta Valley lies nestled between Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn – viticulture under alpine conditions, on terraces and steep slopes that provide the vines with plenty of sunshine during the day and cool temperatures at night. It is these temperature variations that give the Merlot its freshness and vibrancy, rarely found in warmer wine-growing regions.

The nose reveals aromas of dark plum, wild cherry, lavender, and dried spices. Eighteen months of aging in French oak barrels imparts a subtle oak spice without overpowering the fruit. On the palate, supple tannins, a present yet well-integrated acidity, and a remarkable length on the finish – unusually dense for a Merlot from this altitude.

• Temperature: 16–18 °C
• Drinking window: now until 2028
• Dishes: Leg of lamb with rosemary, aged pecorino, mushroom risotto or venison ragù