"Merlot" Sito dell'Ulmo 2005 - PLANETA (Planeta) 750ml x 1 bottle

Sieti del Ulmo is made from single-vineyard Merlot. Years of experience have shown that Merlot, a historic French varietal, produces an ideal wine that beautifully expresses the terroir of the Ulmo vineyard on the shores of Lake Arancio. Although it is an international varietal cultivated worldwide, this Merlot, grown in southwestern Sicily, has become a remarkable wine with a distinct Sicilian character and the potential for long aging.

Classification: Menfi DOC

Grape Varietal: 100% Merlot

Tasting Notes: Deep ruby red. Reflecting the blessed climatic conditions, it initially impressed with rich aromas of ripe plums, black cherries, and red fruits. Now, with aging, it has evolved into a more complex and refined expression, with notes of dried fruits, cocoa, and subtle spice nuances. The tannins are supple and well-integrated, and despite a moderate alcohol volume, it maintains an elegant structure. Its round texture and long finish convey the charm of a classic aged Merlot.

Production Method: After harvesting, the grapes are destemmed and crushed. The juice is then transferred to stainless steel tanks for alcoholic fermentation. Depending on the stage of fermentation, pumping over (circulation) is performed 2-3 times a day for short periods of 15-20 minutes to minimize stress on the skins while extracting the wine's complexity. Fermentation lasts approximately 6-8 days. Temperatures are gradually increased from about 16°C at the beginning, to 20-22°C in the middle, and 25-26°C towards the end, with cooling stopped in the final stage to complete fermentation. After fermentation, the wine is racked to remove the lees and then transferred to French oak barrels for 14 months of aging. Malolactic fermentation occurs entirely in the barrels. Aging takes place in Allier oak barrels (50% new oak, 25% second-use, 25% third-use).

Pairing: A wide range of dishes, from pasta to main courses, and aged cheeses.