97 Montiano - Let's not execute the "war criminal"

[jock]

I have really enjoyed the thread below on Italian Merlot. I would hate to see the classic Italian wines lose their individuality and traditional character as much as the most ardent people in that thread.

However! Last night I had the 97 Montiano. I must say that it is one of the best Merlots I have ever had. Normally I dislike straight Merlots. Almost all of them are green and very very one dimensional and way too many of them are made way too flabby and soft for the great American masses.

The 97 Montiano is another story. Very rich with a lot of depth and complexity. It has the green pepper nose that is characterstic of Merlot but it has a lot coing on.

If you like Merlot you should definitely seek it out and if, like me, you don't care for Merlot you should also give it a try. This one is on a par with a top Pomerol or St Emilion.

[Thomas]

Hey Jock, do not feel too badly. Some Italians have been growing Merlot for about 100 years--it's indigenous by now, especially in the Friuli region.

[winoweenie]

Hi Jock, You`ve never gotten to me on the tasting wine. Also, if`n this here Eytie merlot`s so good, what be the price and availability? winoweenie

[Botafogo]

Vern, where should I send your writ of excommunication? (GGG!!!) Roberto

[jock]

Sorry WW the 97 has come and gone, at least in Phoenix. The 98 is here but I have not had the chance to taste it.

I have seen the 97 still offered by RWC in Sonoma at about $50 which is essentially the release price.

[winoweenie]

Roberto, Don`t flog me yet. This is a friend of mine in the wine biz here in Phoenix i do a lot of bizz wif`. Everyone needs a local source, rite? Okay, Jock, it`s gone but not forgotten. winoweenie

[Botafogo]

Vern, I could care less about you cheating on me, I'm a wine slut too, it's you supporting the Butcher of Umbria that gives me pause.....