“550” Merlot Toscana IGT 2021 (BIO)

Istine | Tuscany
Istine s.s.a. | Via Roma 11 | IT 53017 Radda in Chianti

29693021 · 0,75 l · 44,00 €/l · Price (DE) incl. VAT, excl. Shipping10 units available

From the highest corner of the Vigna Istine (the name 550 refers to the metres above sea level), surrounded by cool woodland, this well-balanced Merlot is vinified in concrete before spending around 15 months in lightly toasted tonnels. Due to the cool location, it is – unusually – harvested after the Sangiovese, allowing it more time to ripen on the vine. The result is a wine with a fine tannin structure and juicy, ripe blue fruits, with a hint of red fruits and some coffee notes, leading to a long, graceful finish. Production amounts to 2,600 bottles per vintage. SUPERIORE.DE

"On the nose, it reveals lush dark and blue fruits, violets and hints of mint, chocolate and spices. The medium- to full-bodied palate is polished and supple, with lively acidity that lends it tension and length." James Suckling

"The organic Istine 2021 Merlot 550 is true to the grape, with the thickness, softness and distinctive texture that only Merlot can deliver. It is nicely fleshed out but not too heavy, with dark fruit, earthy tones and hints of dried herbs and flowers. The vineyard sits at 550 meters in elevation with a northern exposure, on predominantly schistic soils with small amounts of alberese. The wine is fermented in cement vats at controlled temperatures and aged for 12 months in 15-hectoliter tonneaux." Wine Advocate

"The 2021 550 is made from 100% Merlot, grown in the Vigna Istine vineyard in Radda at an altitude of 550 metres. Dark and opulent in the glass, with great vigour, the 2021 captures the full character of the vintage. Blackberry, sage, menthol, liquorice and chocolate are abundant. This magnificent, distinctly Tuscan Merlot hits all the right notes." Vinous