NoseEarthy and vegetal nose of black olive with notes of blackfruit and ample spices underneath. black-oliveblackberryclove
FlavorGood structure with a elegant, welcomingcharacter, and a fruity and spicy lingering finish.
Sicily At a Glance
Region NameSicily
Sicily is Italy’s southernmost region and the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. For more than 2500 years, Sicily (Sicilia in Italian) has been a significant center of Mediterranean viniculture, although the reputation and style of its wines have changed significantly over that time.
Score: 92Vintage 2019Vinous MediaDusty dark florals, crushed stone, wild blueberries, hints of confectioner’s sugar and flowery undergrowth lift up as the 2019 Merlot Valentino slowly blossoms in the glass. This is youthfully poised yet undeniably elegant, with velvety waves of ripe red and blue fruits coasting along a core of vibrant acidity, as purple-tinged inner florals form toward the close. You hardly notice the grippy young tannins that are slowly taking hold until the very end, as a glycerol-like coating of wild berries and minerals slowly melts away from the palate. The 2019 is not for the faint of heart, but it is an incredibly enjoyable glass of Sicilian Merlot.Shelf TalkerFull Page Review
Score: 89Vintage 2019Wine SpectatorLight, fine-grained tannins frame flavors of ripe black plum and black cherry fruit, cured tobacco and anise in this balanced, medium-bodied red. Fresh finish. Drink now through 2024. 3,000 cases made, 1,000 cases imported.Shelf TalkerFull Page Review
Score: 90Vintage 2018Wine SpectatorHints of vanilla and candied violet accent the ripe black plum and black cherry fruit of this medium-bodied red. It's round and balanced, with a fresh tang of acidity keeping it bright and focused to the herb-laced finish. Drink now through 2024. 12,000 cases made, 3,500 cases imported.Shelf TalkerFull Page Review
Score: 87Vintage 2017James SucklingLightly raisiny with some dried strawberries, this is a ripe and jammy red with some drying tannins. Old-school. Drink now.Shelf TalkerFull Page Review
Score: 91Vintage 2016Vinous MediaThe 2016 Merlot Valentino opens up woodsy and peppery, evolving further to reveal notes of plum and blueberry skins lifted by hints of camphor and sage. Its velvety textures are motivated by juicy acidity, complemented by a mix of tart black fruits, cocoa and an air of tobacco that forms toward the close. Although rich in style, this is refined in feel, finishing long with framing wood tannins and a vivid note of ripe plum. The oak management here is nicely done (the wine spent 12 months in new barriques). Enjoy the 2016 now or over the next three to five years.Shelf TalkerFull Page Review
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