This Merlot from Umbria delivers notes of mature fruit, black plum, ripe cherry and toasted vanilla lavished over its entirety. It is a modern, plush wine with a velvety texture and a soft consistency that would pair well with pasta, risotto or meat dishes. The wine has a fun personality and vibrant tones of red fruit and spice on the finish.——M.L.(5/1/2008)—— 89