Cantina Tollo Gufo Merlot

Key characteristics:

Cantina Tollo Gufo Merlot is a captivating red wine that showcases the smooth and approachable nature of Merlot while highlighting the nuances of its Abruzzese terroir. It offers a pure expression of the varietal, resulting in a wine that is both fresh and well-structured with reserved tannins providing a pleasing texture on the palate.

Tasting Notes:

• Variety: 100% Merlot, capturing the essence of this beloved varietal.
• Appearance: Intense ruby red with alluring violet hues, indicative of its richness.
• Aroma: A fragrant and enchanting bouquet of ripe red and black fruits, dominated by notes of plum, cherry, and morello cherry, with sweeping hints of blackberries. Subtle undertones of vanilla, mocha, and spice add layers of complexity.
• Taste: The palate is extremely fresh and very well structured, offering a medium-bodied profile. Reserved yet well-integrated tannins provide good texture, leading to a long, soft finish with complex undertones of spice and chocolate.
• Region: Hailing from Abruzzo, Italy, this wine benefits from vineyards nestled between the Adriatic Sea and the Apennine mountains. The terroir features mostly clayey, sandy, and sandstone soils, enriched by cool influences from the Maiella massif and fresh sea breezes, creating ideal conditions for high-quality grapes.
• Pairing: Pairs beautifully with red meat, chicken, pork, sausages, pizza, pasta, mushrooms, and medium-aged cheeses.

Overall impression:

This Cantina Tollo Gufo Merlot delivers an inviting and harmonious experience, balancing vibrant fruit with a refined structure and a compelling depth of flavor. It is an excellent example of Abruzzo’s ability to produce approachable yet sophisticated Merlot.

Extra notes:

• Cantina Tollo, a historic cooperative founded in 1960, is one of Abruzzo’s most important wineries, having played a crucial role in renewing the Italian wine scene.
• The producer has earned an international reputation and has been recognized with numerous awards, including “Best Italian Cooperative” for the sixth successive year at the Berliner Wein Trophy in 2024.