A Merlot gem from Rizzardi. Made only in those years “in which we believe the Merlot grapes reach the highest level”

Rizzardi Clos Roareti Rosso Veronese (IGT) 2019, 14.5% ABV, €29.95, O’Briens Wine

Made only in those years “in which we believe the Merlot grapes reach the highest level”.

Guerrieri Rizzardi is located near the eastern shore of Lake Garda. But the grapes for this wine come from further inland, to the east. The vineyard is in Valpolicella, less than half an hour north of Verona.

Their Clos Roareti is a Merlot and is a smooth and supple performer on the palate.  It has the typical ruby colour, tending towards the darker side. Aromas, a melange of fruit and floral, give notes of cherry and violet. And a trace too of vanilla. 

It is rich and full-bodied and, according to the producer’s words, “is a unique departure from the lighter styles of Merlot from the Veneto region”. Easy drinking for sure, well balanced with a lip-smacking grip towards the end.

The first vintage of Clos Roareti, a single vineyard Merlot, was in 2006.  The grapes come from the historic monopole (a French term used to indicate that the entire vineyard is owned by a single grower or company). This Cru vineyard of Rovereti is in Negrar, Valpolicella. 

In this centuries-old walled vineyard, the family began to plant Merlot from the late 1990s onwards,  a grape variety perfectly suited to the climate and the vineyard’s red clay soil. 

Maffei Palace and winged Lion of Saint Mark - Verona 

The resulting wine is a rich, full-bodied and complex Merlot.  Clos Roareti is not made every year but only in those years “in which we believe the Merlot grapes reach the highest level”.

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They recommend decanting and serving at around 16° C (or 60° F) and as an accompaniment to roast game or to red meats such as rack of lamb or fillet mignon, also with tomato-based pasta dishes. Ageing potential: up to 10 years.

Very Highly Recommended

Just started working my way through Vino by Joe Campanale who advocates using a Venn system to find a true Italian wine. Instead of the traditional pyramid with DOCG or similar at the top, his Venn (using three intersecting circles) values Artisan Winemakers, Exceptional Terroir and Native Grapes. Not too sure that Rizzardi would agree with Joe!