Cabernet/Merlot
Ecco Domani 2006 Cabernet/Merlot
Ecco Domani Cabernet/Merlot blends the rich texture and firm tannins of Cabernet with the softer tannins and long, complex finish of Merlot to create a medium bodied wine with a deep ruby red color. Aromas of spice and ripe berry from the Cabernet merge with the well-ripened blackberry fruit of the Merlot. The wine is characterized by spice and cherry on the palate.
Production Area
Our fruit is from the Northeastern "Tre Venezie" region of Italy. With a climate similar to Northern California's ideal grape growing regions, the Tre Venezie has "cool nights and warm days," which contributed to exceptional grape maturation. Grapes for the 2006 vintage were grown in following areas within the Tre Venezie region: the Vallagarina Valley in the Province of Trento and Grave del Friuli in the Province of Udine and Pordenone.
Viticultural Notes
The 2006 growing season was characterized by abnormally sudden changes in temperature. High temperatures and occasional rainstorms in July and August were interspersed with short periods of dryness, which helped in the maturation of the grapes. The harvest period was marked by high daytime temperatures that contributed to good sugar accumulation, while a steep drop in temperature to 10°C during the nights promoted the development of aromatic substances.
Winemaker Notes
The grapes were harvested at full maturation during the last week of September and the beginning of October. They were then macerated for 8 to 10 days in small stainless steel tanks to increase the surface contact between the juice and the skins at a temperature of 26-28°C. After separation from the must, refining, and alcoholic fermentation, the wine remained on the lees until the end of malolactic fermentation. Following Ecco Domani's Winemaking Philosophy of fresh, fruit-forward wines, the Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot were not introduced to any oak. This allows the wine to retain its pure fruit characteristics. Ecco Domani Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot is made from 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Merlot grapes. 10% of the blend was made from grapes that were left on the vine longer than normal, allowing the juice to develop greater concentration and complexity from the extended hang time.
Tasting Notes
Ecco Domani 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot is soft and lovely in the modern red style, with well ripened blackberry fruit. It is gentle with soft tannins and a long complex finish. This wine is a perfect match for a wide range of foods, particularly tomato-based pasta dishes, poultry and grilled meats.
Finished Wine
Varietal Content: 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Merlot (10% of the blend is late harvest)
Appellation: IGT delle Venezie
Alcohol Level: 13.2%
Residual Sugar: 0.4 g/l00ml
Total Acidity: 0.47 g/100ml
pH: 3.7
Ecco Domani Cabernet/Merlot blend pairs well with dishes such as tomato-based pasta, grilled steak with mushrooms, and garlic risotto. Try our food and wine recipe suggestion: Classic Vegetable Lasagna
