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Vin Santo del Chianti DOC Merlaia
Toscana, Italy
‘Merlaia’ is made from Trebbiano and Malvasia grapes air-dried on racks before being slowly fermented and aged in traditional caratelli barrels. This long, oxidative process creates a dessert wine of incredible depth and aromatic complexity. Rich aromas of dried fig, apricot, hazelnut, caramel and citrus peel emerge from the glass. The palate is dense and unctuous yet lifted by fresh acidity, finishing with notes of almond and orange zest. A traditional Tuscan treasure, it pairs beautifully with cantucci, aged cheeses or liver pâté. Long-lived and contemplative, it brings the warmth and patience of its origin to every glass.
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The Producer
Torre a Cona is perhaps visually our most impressive estate. Owned by the Rossi di Montelera family the 18th-century villa dominates the surrounding vineyards and olive groves. With the exception of the impressive twelfth-century tower, the buildings were razed and then rebuilt by the Rinuccini family in the 16th century. In any event, it’s terribly grand and today one wing has opening as a hotel of suitable pomp.
Torre a Cona’s 20 H under vine are scattered throughout the estate and are all at high altitude (> 500 metres). Sangiovese holds sway but there are parcels of Colorino, Merlot, Trebbiano Toscano and Malvasia Bianca. The Chianti is a blend of Sangiovese with a bit of Colorino from older vines that adds a lovely layer of black fruit. It benefits from a relatively short maceration in stainless and shows red and black cherry, blueberry and a hint of tomato leaf. The 'Badia a Corte' Riserva is 100% Sangiovese and sports a fulsome structure with an earthy, tannic backbone. The wines are superb and the estate is well worth a visit.
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