2022 Venica - Collio Merlot (750ml)

Grown on the limestone-rich slopes of Collio, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, the 2022 Venica Merlot (750ml) delivers a structured, food-forward red wine that balances concentrated red fruit with the region’s signature mineral clarity. The 2022 vintage’s warm growing period allowed the grapes to reach full phenolic maturity, yielding a mid-weight palate layered with tart cherry, dark plum, and a trace of wild thyme. Minimal oak intervention preserves crisp Italian acidity and fine-grained tannins that integrate smoothly on the finish without obscuring the fresh berry character.

The wine’s built-in structure makes it highly adaptable at the table. Its moderate weight and bright acidity cut efficiently through fat, so serve it alongside herb-roasted rack of lamb, slow-braised short ribs, or mushroom-stuffed portobello caps. Heartier wheat pastas tossed in slow-cooked meat ragù or tomato-basil sauces highlight the complementary savory notes, while aged hard cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano or Canestrato Toscano provide the necessary salt to round out the tannic finish. Decant for ten minutes to open the aromatic profile, or pour directly from the 750ml bottle at 60–65°F for immediate service.