Frescobaldi, Lamaione 2018 (Merlot)

Lamaione 2018 is a distinguished Merlot produced by the renowned Frescobaldi family at their Tenuta CastelGiocondo estate in Montalcino, Tuscany. In the 1970s, they boldly planted Merlot vines in the estate's unique clay-rich soils, leading to the creation of Lamaione in 1991. This wine stands out as a powerful and proud expression of Merlot in the Montalcino region, offering depth, richness, and exceptional aging potential.

Appearance: Deep, impenetrable ruby red with intense garnet reflections, indicating both its youth and potential for graceful aging. The colour is richly saturated, with a nearly opaque core that hints at the wine’s concentration. When swirled, it coats the glass with slow-moving, pronounced legs, reflecting its full-bodied nature and generous alcohol content. A vibrant sheen highlights the wine’s meticulous vinification and aging process.

Aroma: The nose is complex, layered, and intensely aromatic. Ripe blackcurrant, plum, and dark cherry emerge immediately, followed by hints of blueberry compote and dried violets. The fruit notes are complemented by luxurious undertones of espresso, dark chocolate, and vanilla from its time in oak. As the wine opens further, nuances of sweet tobacco, balsamic herbs, and a subtle touch of black pepper and anise add further complexity, creating a beautifully integrated bouquet that evolves with time in the glass.

Taste: Full-bodied and enveloping, the palate reveals velvety tannins that are powerful yet polished, harmoniously balanced with rich flavours of blackberries, bitter cherries, and dark cocoa. The wine's vibrant acidity lends freshness and precision, ensuring that its bold fruit profile remains well-defined. Hints of leather, liquorice, and a touch of balsamic provide additional depth, while the oak integration adds warmth and subtle spice without overpowering the purity of the fruit.

Finish: The finish is long, refined, and immensely satisfying, with lingering impressions of dark fruit, toasted oak, and delicate minerality. As the flavours evolve, a gentle warmth emerges, supported by a whisper of nutmeg, graphite, and a hint of dried rosemary. The silky tannins extend the wine’s persistence, allowing it to leave a lasting impression of elegance and depth. A final lift of acidity ensures the finish remains vibrant, promising excellent potential for aging.

Food Pairing: Lamaione 2018 pairs exceptionally well with slow-cooked dishes such as pot roasts marinated in red wine, where its structure complements the richness of the meat. Braised beef short ribs with a rosemary reduction allow the wine’s dark fruit and spice to shine, while mushroom-enriched stews bring out its earthy complexity. It also complements aged cheeses, such as Pecorino Toscano or Parmigiano-Reggiano, where its velvety texture and deep flavours enhance the cheese’s nutty and savoury profile.

Lamaione 2018 is a stunning expression of Merlot in the Montalcino terroir, showcasing the power, elegance, and refinement that the Frescobaldi family consistently delivers. With its depth of flavour, structured tannins, and exceptional balance, it offers immediate pleasure while holding great promise for further evolution in the bottle