Grape origin

Morcote, Ticino.
DOC Castello di Morcote vineyards under certified organic and biodynamic management, terraces with a 30-35 % slope, vines approx. 35 years old. Loose soil resting on rose porphyry, a volcanic rock peculiar to the promontory of Arbostora. Microclimate conferred by the lake with thermal winds. Altitude between 400 and 500 metres above sea level.

Vinification and ageing

Manual selection of the grapes from the best exposures in the Morcote vineyard. The must remains in contact with the skins for about 30 days in temperature-controlled truncated conical wooden vats. The prolonged maceration with manual pumping over and punching down increases the aromatic and structural complexity. Ageing for at least 18 months in partly new 300l and 400l French oak barriques.

Tasting notes

Intense carmine red color. On the nose, a complex bouquet with intense aromas of red fruit and spices, accompanied by balsamic and cocoa notes, which persist on the finish. On the palate it is fruity, with an important tannic structure, but very fine and elegant, and with good acidity that gives it freshness and crunchiness. Beautiful persistence with fruity, balsamic and spicy notes.
An intense Merlot, which can at the same time maintain the elegance and finesse typical of the Morcote terroir. Lending itself to long aging, this wine will further develop in finesse and complexity as it ages.

Awards and acknowledgments

• Wine in the Mémoire des Vins Suisses

• Best of Swiss Wine

• Vintage 2020
  James Suckling - 93 points
  Falstaff Merlot Trophy 2024 - 91 points

• Vintage 2019
  Robert Parker - 91+ points
  Falstaff Merlot Trophy 2023 - 91 points

• Vintage 2018
  Mondial du Merlot 2021 - Gold medal
  Grand Prix du Vin Suisse 2021 - Silver medal
  Robert Parker - 93 points
  James Suckling - 94 points
  Falstaff Merlot Trophy 2022 - 94 points
  Falstaff Wine Guide Switzerland 2022 - 96 points

• Vintage 2017
  Robert Parker - 93 points
  James Suckling - 93 points

• Vintage 2016
  Robert Parker - 90+ points

• Vintage 2015
  Robert Parker - 90 points

• Vintage 2013
  Robert Parker - 93 points
  James Suckling - 93 points