Marchesi di Gresy, Monferrato Rosso 2018

This Monferrato Rosso is made from 100% Merlot and comes from di Gresy's Colombo vineyards in the commune of Cassine which was originally destined for blending with some of their Barbera. However Alberto di Gresy was so impressed with the quality he kept it back to make this single varietal instead. After fermentation the wine is aged for 12 months in used French barriques followed by a further 24 months in traditional Slavonian oak casks. There's lots going on - complex aromas of plum, damson and cherry mingle with notes of leather, sweet spice, black pepper and earthy touches. It's medium-bodied and has an elegant palate containing dark plum, sour cherry, cedar oak, vanilla and balsamic notes with fine, dry tannins and a balanced acidity leding up to a long finish.

Excellent wine with real pedigree. Try with simply cooked steak, game, rabbit or lamb, casseroles, or wild boar ragu.

Marchesi di Grésy, recognised as one of Piemonte's top producers, boasts 45 hectares of vineyards across Langhe and Monferrato, including the renowned Martinenga vineyard in Barbaresco. The stunning natural amphitheatre surrounding the winery has been owned by the di Grésy family since 1797. Alberto di Grésy, was the one who began producing wines under the di Grésy name in 1973 - previously they had sold their fruit to other producers. His winemaking philosophy is simple - use the best technology while respecting tradition and highlighting the character of the terrain and grape variety.