Guado Al Tasso 2018 Cont' Ugo, Toscana IGT

Like Ornellaia's Masseto this Bolgheri red from Guado al Tasso is 100% Merlot. The Tuscan coastal region of Bolgheri has proven to be an ideal spot for growing Merlot of the utmost quality. Grapes were sourced from the over 100 acres of Merlot in the estate's vineyards. After hand picking and a careful selection in the cellar, the grapes fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks for a period of 20 days. Fermentation temperatures were regulated on the basis of the ripeness level of the various lots. The different styles of Merlot went separately into oak barrels for aging, 30% new oak. The finest batches were blended and transferred back into barriques for a further 12-month period of aging, then bottled. After a further six months of bottle aging the wine was released. A wine that over delivers and is extremely under valued (especially when compared to Merlot from its neighbors) this 2018 Cont' Ugo shows compelling, rich and intriguing aromas of Mediterranean herbs, sweet spices and liqueur cherries. Velvety tannins on the palate are well sustained by bright acidity imparting freshness and pleasurable mouthfeel plus excellent length. No scores yet for this new release but it always receives high accolades and 90+ scores.