Ronco Severo Merlot 2024

Ronco Severo is a natural wine estate in Prepotto, in the Colli Orientali del Friuli of north-eastern Italy, where Stefano Novello farms organically and makes wines with minimal intervention. The Merlot grows on steep rocky terraces, the difficult stony ground that gave the winery its name. These hillside marl and sandstone soils, known locally as ponca, drain freely and stress the vine, concentrating flavour, while the cool sub-alpine climate and good day to night temperature swing keep the fruit fresh and aromatic. In the cellar the approach is natural: fermentation with native yeasts and no additions, followed by a short 6 months in 500 litre French oak barrels. The large format and brief ageing allow gentle oxygen exchange and tannin softening while leaving the fruit unmarked by obvious oak. The colour is medium ruby. The nose shows plum, cherry and red berries, with dried herbs, earth and a peppery lift. The palate is medium bodied, fresh and supple, the tannins soft and fine, the finish savoury and clean. This is a Merlot built on freshness rather than weight. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees. It suits beef, pork and mushroom dishes.