Discover the elegance of Tenuta Luisa Merlot DOC Friuli, a refined red wine crafted from 100% Merlot grapes, grown in the mineral-rich terrain of Friuli Venezia Giulia. This medium-bodied wine enchants with a vibrant ruby-red hue and an aromatic bouquet of ripe cherries, raspberries, and subtle spice notes. On the palate, it offers a soft, velvety texture balanced by a dry finish and delicate tannins, making it an excellent companion to roasted meats, game, aged cheeses, or classic pasta dishes. Meticulously vinified with a 15-day maceration and aged in stainless steel before bottle refinement, this wine beautifully reflects the heritage and artistry of the Luisa family estate, which has thrived for over a century. Perfect for savoring with hearty meals or enriching quiet moments, Tenuta Luisa Merlot is a testament to the terroir's unique charm.
Process & Profile
Tenuta Luisa's Merlot is cultivated in the renowned Friuli Isonzo DOC appellation, a region celebrated for its mineral-rich alluvial soils. The meticulous winemaking process begins with a harvest that ensures perfect ripeness of the grapes, followed by maceration to extract rich aromas and colors. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats over 12 days, preserving the purity of the fruit. The wine is aged on fine lees for eight months and refined for an additional three months in the bottle, resulting in a balanced and harmonious expression.
This Merlot stands out with its ruby red hue and violet highlights. It embodies the elegance of Friuli's winemaking heritage, offering a medium-bodied profile with soft tannins and a fine structural balance.
Tasting Notes
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Aromas: An enticing bouquet of red fruits, including raspberry and blueberry, is complemented by delicate floral and spicy notes.
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Palate: Expect a warm, dry, and smooth taste with slight tannins and a pleasantly crisp acidity. The wine ends with a persistent and flavorful aftertaste, leaving a lasting impression of ripe berries and subtle spice.
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Color: Brilliant ruby red with youthful violet undertones.
What Makes It Special
Tenuta Luisa Merlot is a true reflection of the Friuli terroir and the winery's commitment to quality. The vineyard's proximity to the Isonzo River and its gravelly soils imbue the wine with a vibrant mineral character and aromatic complexity. Its delicate balance of fruitiness and structure makes it versatile, approachable, and distinctly elegant.
The dedication to traditional methods, combined with modern techniques, highlights the unique potential of Merlot in Friuli. This wine is a testament to the skillful art of winemaking passed down through generations of the Luisa family.
How to Enjoy
For the best experience, serve this wine at a temperature between 16-18°C in medium-sized goblets to allow its aromas to fully develop. It pairs beautifully with:
- Grilled red meats or roasted meats
- Italian classics like pasta all'amatriciana or risottos
- Game dishes such as roasted rabbit or poultry
- Aged cheeses like Pecorino or Parmigiano Reggiano
This Merlot is also an excellent choice for quiet evenings by the fireplace or shared moments in good company, offering sophistication and warmth with every sip.
Elevate your wine collection with Tenuta Luisa Merlot DOC Friuli, a bottle that celebrates the fine craftsmanship and terroir of the Friuli Venezia Giulia region.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the flavor profile of Tenuta Luisa Merlot DOC Friuli?
Tenuta Luisa Merlot DOC Friuli showcases a complex flavor profile, with notes of ripe plums, cherries, and a hint of chocolate. It may also reveal subtle nuances of spices and vanilla due to oak aging, offering a velvety and smooth mouthfeel.
How should I serve Tenuta Luisa Merlot DOC Friuli?
Serve this wine slightly below room temperature, ideally at 60-68°F (15-20°C), to highlight its aromas and flavors. Decanting for about 30 minutes before serving is recommended to allow the wine to fully open up. Use an oversized wine glass to enhance aeration.
What foods pair well with Tenuta Luisa Merlot DOC Friuli?
This Merlot pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, including roasted meats, grilled vegetables, hearty pastas, and aged cheeses. It also complements dishes with earthy or mushroom-based sauces.
Where is Tenuta Luisa located?
Tenuta Luisa is situated in Mariano del Friuli, in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region of Italy. This family-run vineyard has a long history of producing high-quality wines.
Is Tenuta Luisa Merlot DOC Friuli suitable for aging?
Yes, this wine is suitable for aging. While it is enjoyable when young, aging it for 3-7 years (or longer for exceptional vintages) can help develop deeper flavors of chocolate, spice, and tobacco. Proper storage at consistent cellar temperatures will optimize its potential.
What makes Tenuta Luisa Merlot unique?
Tenuta Luisa Merlot reflects the rich terroir of Friuli Venezia Giulia, combining traditional winemaking techniques with modern expertise. Its balance of fruit-forward flavors, smooth tannins, and potential for aging sets it apart.
Does this wine contain sulfites?
Yes, like most wines, Tenuta Luisa Merlot DOC Friuli contains sulfites, which are added for preservation and stability.
Can I visit Tenuta Luisa for wine tastings or tours?
Yes, Tenuta Luisa offers wine tastings, wine cellar tours, and vineyard walks. Visitors can enjoy a comprehensive experience of the estate's wines and history.
How does this Merlot compare to other styles?
Friuli Merlot captures a balance of Old World and New World styles, offering lush fruit flavors typical of New World wines while maintaining the structure and elegance associated with European Merlots.
Is Tenuta Luisa Merlot considered a dry wine?
Yes, Tenuta Luisa Merlot is typically a dry wine. Although it may exhibit ripe fruit flavors, these do not indicate sweetness but rather the natural characteristics of the grape.