Conte Brandolini d'Adda Merlot Vistorta 2018

Conte Brandolini D'Adda Merlot Vistorta 2018 is a polished, estate-grown Merlot from the historic Vistorta estate in Friuli-Venezia Giulia, crafted to showcase depth, elegance and terroir rather than sheer power. This is a refined, Bordeaux-inspired Italian red, with structure and complexity that reward both immediate enjoyment and patient cellaring. Its unique appeal lies in the combination of old-vine Merlot, clay-rich soils and a long-standing family tradition of producing one of Friuli’s benchmark Merlot-based wines.

Tasting Notes
In the glass, the 2018 Vistorta Merlot shows a deep ruby colour with garnet reflections toward the rim, indicating both concentration and a wine beginning to develop some complexity with age. On the nose it opens slowly, revealing layers of ripe black cherries, wild plum and blackberry, followed by notes of violets, tobacco leaf, cedar, graphite and a subtle hint of dark chocolate and sweet spices from its time in oak. The palate is dry, full-bodied and silky, with a core of juicy dark fruit framed by finely grained tannins and a vibrant, characteristic Friulian freshness. Flavours of black cherry, cassis and ripe damson are interwoven with savoury undertones of forest floor, leather, licorice and a gentle smokiness, leading into a long, persistent finish with a mineral edge. 2018 offers immediate approachability, but the structure and acidity suggest very good aging potential: it should evolve gracefully for at least 8–12 years from the vintage, gaining more tertiary notes of truffle, cigar box and dried herbs.

Production
The Vistorta estate lies in the heart of Friuli-Venezia Giulia, on predominantly clay and alluvial soils that are particularly well-suited to Merlot, giving the wines both power and finesse. Vines are carefully managed to control yields, and the grapes are harvested by hand at optimal ripeness to ensure meticulous selection in the vineyard. Fermentation typically takes place in temperature-controlled tanks, with extended maceration on the skins to extract colour, aroma and tannin in a measured way. The wine is then aged in small oak barrels (often French barriques and larger casks) for an extended period, allowing it to gain complexity, integrate its tannins and develop the signature balance between fruit, spice and earth that defines Vistorta’s Merlot.

Food & Serving
Conte Brandolini D'Adda Merlot Vistorta 2018 pairs beautifully with rich, savoury dishes such as braised beef, roasted lamb, duck breast, game birds, ossobuco, and hearty stews, as well as aged cheeses like Parmigiano Reggiano, Pecorino and mature Asiago. It also complements mushroom-based dishes, truffle pasta and grilled vegetables with herbs. Serve at 16–18°C to highlight its aromatic complexity and supple texture. Decanting for 45–60 minutes before serving is recommended, especially in its younger years, to allow the wine to open up and fully express its layered bouquet.

Producer
The Vistorta-Conte Brandolini D'Adda estate is one of Friuli-Venezia Giulia’s historic names, with the Brandolini family’s roots in the region stretching back centuries. Under the guidance of Count Brandino Brandolini d’Adda, the estate became particularly renowned for its focus on Merlot, inspired by classical Bordeaux but firmly anchored in Friulian terroir. Over time, Vistorta has earned a reputation as a reference point for serious, ageworthy Italian Merlot, helping to elevate Friuli beyond its fame for white wines alone. The winery’s commitment to meticulous vineyard work and thoughtful, terroir-driven winemaking has secured its place among the most respected producers in the region.

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