Vignamaggio’s Merlot reminds us that this grape, in the right hands, can make complex and serious wines, not just up-front fruit bombs. A lovely tannic presence complements its plummy, dark fruit qualities. A hint of attractive bitterness in the finish is a telltale sign that this Merlot is serious. Although older than Vignamaggio’s Cabernet Franc, it’s still more structured, so give it another few years in the cellar.
94 Michael Apstein – December 24, 2025