2020 Tzingana, Monte Bernardi, Tuscany, Italy

The most widely planted grape in Bordeaux and a grape that has been on a relentless expansion drive throughout the world in the last decade. Merlot is adaptable to most soils and is relatively simple to cultivate. It is a vigorous naturally high yielding grape that requires savage pruning - over-cropped Merlot-based wines are dilute and bland. It is also vital to pick at optimum ripeness as Merlot can quickly lose its varietal characteristics if harvested overripe.

The estate was originally purchased in 1988 by Stak & Sharon and the first wine was produced in 1992. The Schmelzer family acquired Monte Bernardi at the end of 2003 and they are now building on what Stak successfully started, investing money in both the vineyards and the winery. The Monte Bernardi estate extends over 52 hectares (130 acres), of which 15 hectares and 5 of those hectares are old vines of 45+ years. The vineyards are situated in the hilly, southern most region of Panzano, an area that has been acknowledged as one of the Grand Cru of Chianti Classico, and is considered capable of making wines that can compete with the best in the world. The vines are planted on a soil of a high rock content mixture, which dependent on the vineyard consists of shale (Galestro), marl and limestone (Alberese). The vineyards are perfectly situated - standing at an altitude of 350 meters above sea level, surrounded by forests and enjoying a southern exposure, with the river Pesa flowing just a few hundred meters to the south. These factors contribute to the unique micro-climate of Monte Bernardi.