There are few people in the world who can boast about the fact that they are the 30th generation of Tuscan winemakers and that their family has been involved in making wine since the 13th century. Lamberto Frescolbaldi of Marchesi is too modest and humble for that, but his achievements in Tuscan winemaking are a testament to the family’s continuing success.

This Tuscan Merlot was aged for 24 months in French oak barrels (80% new) and then cellared for an additional 12 months in the bottle. This wine is a pure delight to drink as it expresses the typical geographical elements of Tuscany. From the first whiff, you realize that you are in Tuscany with notes of sage, saddle leather, underbrush, and ground coffee. It is old world in style with vivid flavors of dark plums and black olives integrated with fresh acidity along with sweet silky tannins. Give it some time in the glass and it will continue to evolve leading you on a memorable journey. While this wine is accessible now, there is still much more to come in the future.

By W Peter Hoyne