Refosco

This is a blend of 50% Merlot, and 50% Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso from northeast Italy.  Purple in color, opaque and bright.  The nose is powerful (and nice) with black cherries, black raspberries, tobacco, and spice.  Full bodied.  Medium tannins.  Great acidity.  On the palate, this is delicious.  Plenty of structure but still accessible.  Flavors of black raspberries, black cherries with tobacco, spice and char.  Long finish.

The first two bottles opened of this were both corked.  The third was sound.  Refosco is the name of the grape mostly used in northeast Italy.  Deep ruby in color, lighter at the rim.  The nose is dusty with dark cherries and slight mild mint.  On the palate, light tannins with tart acidity.  Cherries and red currants.  This is drinking well but should be drunk sooner.  Some depth.  This will go well with pasta, pizza and most foods.