Matías Riccitelli Old Vines from Patagonia Merlot 2023
Planted in the remote, windswept Rio Negro region of southern Argentina, the Matías Riccitelli Old Vines from Patagonia Merlot is a masterclass in cool-climate winemaking. Riccitelli specifically sought out these historic, deeply rooted vineyards to craft an Argentinian red wine that steps away from heavy, jammy styles, capturing instead the wild, fresh elegance of the deep south. Pouring a brilliant dark ruby, the wine immediately offers an expressive lift of wild blackberry, crushed raspberry, and fresh plum. Because the southern Patagonian winds keep the grapes so cool, the fruit retains a striking, mouth-watering freshness. Maturation in oak barrels gently softens the Merlot, leaving a silky mouthfeel laced with fascinating hints of dark chocolate, wild mint, and a touch of cracked black pepper. This is an incredibly refined, character-driven wine that brings a real sense of occasion to the dining table. Its bright acidity and smooth tannins make it a remarkably versatile partner for classic British cooking. Try pouring a glass alongside a rich venison stew, a roasted rack of lamb with rosemary, or a hearty mushroom Wellington.
