Vinica Merlot del Molise Terre del Sorbo 2019

Agricolavinica – Le Colline di Ripa Merlot del Molise Lame del Sorbo 2019

Authentic, surprising and unmistakably unconventional, Lame del Sorbo presents Merlot in a completely different light, far removed from international stereotypes and deeply connected to the identity of the Molise region.

Overview

Agricolavinica – Le Colline di Ripa Merlot del Molise Lame del Sorbo is a red wine that challenges expectations and offers an original interpretation of one of the world’s most widely planted grape varieties. Produced exclusively from 100% Merlot grapes, it stands out for its vibrant aromatic profile and remarkable freshness on the palate, distancing itself from the richer and more opulent expressions often associated with the variety. This wine focuses on purity of fruit, aromatic precision and lively tension, delivering a modern and engaging tasting experience. Its distinctive personality makes it an ideal choice for those seeking to discover a dynamic, terroir-driven and refreshingly different Merlot.

History of the Wine

Lame del Sorbo was created from Agricolavinica – Le Colline di Ripa’s desire to highlight the expressive potential of Merlot within the unique context of Molise. In a wine landscape often dominated by concentrated styles heavily influenced by oak, this wine follows a different path, prioritising authenticity, purity and immediacy. The result is a bottle that speaks clearly of its territory without unnecessary intervention, allowing the varietal character to emerge through a fresh and contemporary interpretation. The 2019 vintage perfectly reflects this philosophy, expressing balance, energy and a strong stylistic identity.

Vineyard Philosophy

The Merlot grapes used for Lame del Sorbo are cultivated with the aim of preserving aromatic integrity, natural freshness and fruit quality. Vineyard management focuses on achieving balanced ripeness while avoiding excessive concentration that could compromise the wine’s vibrant character. The agronomic approach encourages moderate yields and high-quality fruit, allowing the grapes to develop precise aromas and a harmonious structure. This philosophy results in a Merlot that expresses energy, freshness and precision rather than simple richness and power.

Winemaking and Ageing

After crushing, the must ferments in stainless steel at controlled temperatures to preserve the grape variety’s aromatic purity and highlight the fresher, more direct expression of the fruit. Ageing also takes place exclusively in stainless steel, avoiding any influence from oak and allowing the wine to retain its true varietal identity. This winemaking choice reflects the winery’s commitment to producing an honest and transparent Merlot capable of expressing its terroir through precision, balance and authenticity. The result is a wine with a unique personality, defined by freshness, aromatic clarity and exceptional drinkability.

Tasting Notes

Colour: Intense and bright ruby red with vibrant reflections that emphasise its freshness and vitality.

Nose: An unconventional aromatic profile dominated by sour cherry and pomegranate. The classic notes of ripe plum, chocolate and vanilla often associated with international Merlot styles are deliberately absent.

Palate: Fresh, juicy and energetic, remarkably reminiscent of biting into a blood orange. Its lively acidity and precise fruit character lead to a long, vibrant and deeply satisfying finish.

Food Pairings

Lame del Sorbo is an exceptionally versatile wine at the table thanks to its freshness and fruit-driven character. It pairs beautifully with artisanal cured meats, pasta dishes with light meat sauces, roasted white meats and grilled vegetable preparations. Its vibrant palate makes it particularly interesting alongside Mediterranean cuisine, medium-aged cheeses and recipes that showcase fresh and aromatic ingredients. It is also an ideal red wine for those seeking elegance and drinkability without sacrificing personality and character.

Technical Sheet

• Appellation: Merlot del Molise
• Producer: Agricolavinica – Le Colline di Ripa
• Wine: Lame del Sorbo
• Vintage: 2019
• Region: Molise
• Country: Italy
• Grape Variety: 100% Merlot
• Bottle Size: 0.75 L
• Vinification: Stainless steel fermentation at controlled temperature
• Ageing: Stainless steel
• Alcohol Content: 13.5% vol.
• Serving Temperature: 16–18°C (61–64°F)
• Ageing Potential: 5–8 years
• Recommended Pairings: Cured meats, pasta dishes, white meats, grilled vegetables and medium-aged cheeses
• Allergens: Contains sulphites

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Agricolavinica – Le Colline di Ripa Merlot del Molise Lame del Sorbo 2019

Authentic, surprising and unmistakably unconventional, Lame del Sorbo presents Merlot in a completely different light, far removed from international stereotypes and deeply connected to the identity of the Molise region.

Overview

Agricolavinica – Le Colline di Ripa Merlot del Molise Lame del Sorbo is a red wine that challenges expectations and offers an original interpretation of one of the world’s most widely planted grape varieties. Produced exclusively from 100% Merlot grapes, it stands out for its vibrant aromatic profile and remarkable freshness on the palate, distancing itself from the richer and more opulent expressions often associated with the variety. This wine focuses on purity of fruit, aromatic precision and lively tension, delivering a modern and engaging tasting experience. Its distinctive personality makes it an ideal choice for those seeking to discover a dynamic, terroir-driven and refreshingly different Merlot.

History of the Wine

Lame del Sorbo was created from Agricolavinica – Le Colline di Ripa’s desire to highlight the expressive potential of Merlot within the unique context of Molise. In a wine landscape often dominated by concentrated styles heavily influenced by oak, this wine follows a different path, prioritising authenticity, purity and immediacy. The result is a bottle that speaks clearly of its territory without unnecessary intervention, allowing the varietal character to emerge through a fresh and contemporary interpretation. The 2019 vintage perfectly reflects this philosophy, expressing balance, energy and a strong stylistic identity.

Vineyard Philosophy

The Merlot grapes used for Lame del Sorbo are cultivated with the aim of preserving aromatic integrity, natural freshness and fruit quality. Vineyard management focuses on achieving balanced ripeness while avoiding excessive concentration that could compromise the wine’s vibrant character. The agronomic approach encourages moderate yields and high-quality fruit, allowing the grapes to develop precise aromas and a harmonious structure. This philosophy results in a Merlot that expresses energy, freshness and precision rather than simple richness and power.

Winemaking and Ageing

After crushing, the must ferments in stainless steel at controlled temperatures to preserve the grape variety’s aromatic purity and highlight the fresher, more direct expression of the fruit. Ageing also takes place exclusively in stainless steel, avoiding any influence from oak and allowing the wine to retain its true varietal identity. This winemaking choice reflects the winery’s commitment to producing an honest and transparent Merlot capable of expressing its terroir through precision, balance and authenticity. The result is a wine with a unique personality, defined by freshness, aromatic clarity and exceptional drinkability.

Tasting Notes

Colour: Intense and bright ruby red with vibrant reflections that emphasise its freshness and vitality.

Nose: An unconventional aromatic profile dominated by sour cherry and pomegranate. The classic notes of ripe plum, chocolate and vanilla often associated with international Merlot styles are deliberately absent.

Palate: Fresh, juicy and energetic, remarkably reminiscent of biting into a blood orange. Its lively acidity and precise fruit character lead to a long, vibrant and deeply satisfying finish.

Food Pairings

Lame del Sorbo is an exceptionally versatile wine at the table thanks to its freshness and fruit-driven character. It pairs beautifully with artisanal cured meats, pasta dishes with light meat sauces, roasted white meats and grilled vegetable preparations. Its vibrant palate makes it particularly interesting alongside Mediterranean cuisine, medium-aged cheeses and recipes that showcase fresh and aromatic ingredients. It is also an ideal red wine for those seeking elegance and drinkability without sacrificing personality and character.

Technical Sheet

• Appellation: Merlot del Molise
• Producer: Agricolavinica – Le Colline di Ripa
• Wine: Lame del Sorbo
• Vintage: 2019
• Region: Molise
• Country: Italy
• Grape Variety: 100% Merlot
• Bottle Size: 0.75 L
• Vinification: Stainless steel fermentation at controlled temperature
• Ageing: Stainless steel
• Alcohol Content: 13.5% vol.
• Serving Temperature: 16–18°C (61–64°F)
• Ageing Potential: 5–8 years
• Recommended Pairings: Cured meats, pasta dishes, white meats, grilled vegetables and medium-aged cheeses
• Allergens: Contains sulphites