Allegrini Corte Giara Merlot IGT Veneto 2024

Allegrini Corte Giara is a Merlot from the Allegrini family, growers in Valpolicella in the Veneto since the 16th century, here working under the broader IGT Veneto. The grapes are grown on the gentle slopes of the region, where moraine and limestone-clay soils and a temperate climate moderated by Lake Garda and the foothills give the Merlot ripe fruit while keeping its acidity fresh. This is a wine made to show pure fruit. It is fermented and aged entirely in stainless steel for around four months, with no oak contact, which preserves the bright primary aromas and keeps the texture clean and lively. The temperature-controlled steel tanks lock in the fruit and avoid any oxidative or wood character. The colour is bright ruby, with a nose of juicy cherry, ripe plum and blackcurrant over a faint herbal, earthy note. The palate is medium bodied and smooth at 12.8% alcohol, with soft tannins, fresh acidity and a clean, fruit-forward finish. It is an approachable, food-friendly red made for early drinking. Serve at 15 to 16C, lightly cool if you prefer, with everyday Italian cooking and lighter meats.