Frescobaldi - Tenuta Castelgiocondo : Lamaione 2014

This is a pure expression of Merlot from the Frescobaldi estate in Montalcino that has been in production since 1991. The early-ripening French variety had a little trouble in this cold and wet vintage. Grapes that ripened later in the autumn season were able to take advantage of a late-season heat spike. However, the 2014 Lamaione Tenuta Castelgiocondo shows juicy characteristics of the grape with cherry and fresh blackberry. This is a mid-weight wine with good density but is perhaps a little shorter in terms of persistence in this vintage.

Oodles of sweet, ripe black cherry, plum and vanilla flavors mark this lush red that's young, showing mostly oak detail on the finish, with a soft profile. Drink now through 2023. 1,200 cases made, 30 cases imported.