1999 Le Macchiole Merlot Messorio

The 1999 is one of the more focused, intense Messorios in this lineup. It shows the minerality and drive of the cooler vintage in its clean, beautifully delineated aromas and flavors. Espresso, grilled herbs and mint are some of the nuances that linger on the finish. The 1999 continues to change in the glass, offering a preview of what is in store for readers lucky enough to own it. This is an absolutely joyous wine to follow in the glass.

Some half-sized 112 litre barrels were used in the cellar . This is definitively not for classicists. Only the churlish could fail to admit that this hand-crafted all-Merlot is a crowd-pleaser but this is new-wave Maremma stuff rather than an expression of any Tuscan heritage. The fruit is gorgeously round but there is still sweet oak on the nose which will displease some tasters. On the other hand it is extremely suave and classy – not just sweet grape juice – despite its youth. (JR)