Ricasoli Casalferro Merlot 2008 - The first words out of our mouth after our first sip was “ Holy S$#! This wine is really good!" After a few more sips we realized that this wine is at its peak. Although some people say with the acidity it will still age a few more years. I feel it should be consumed now. The 2008 Casalferro Merlot is aged in oak barrels for 18 months. Notes of mocha, blueberry, Good N Plenty (licorice) red fruit and finishes with baking spices. It’s smooth and elegant and the pairs very well with steak. It is definitely a food-friendly wine. (SRP $70)
Ricasoli Casalferro Merlot 2011 - This vintage was a little different than the 2008 as it experienced a hot growing season. As a result, the wine is not as acidic as the 2008. Aged in oak for 18 to 21 months notes of fresh forest come through on the nose. The wine features lots of blue and red fruit, cinnamon, tart blueberry with a nice mocha finish. This wine should age for another 10 years or so. (SRP $70)