La Massa Asiram Toscana 2019

“Powerful, lively ruby with a slight garnet shimmer. Very rich and expressive nose, rich aromas of blackberries and blueberries, then also notes of dark chocolate and liquorice, with some cardamom in the background. Lots of sweet texture on the palate, ripe dark berry fruit, unfolds with many layers of finely-meshed tannins, full drive on the finish.”

“Here's an exciting new wine from one of my favorite winemakers. The 2019 Asiram is a catharsis wine for Giampaolo Motta, who lost his mother in 2019 but who also found financial freedom thanks to new investors that same year. Dedicated to his late mother, this wine is all Merlot, made with optimistic faith and conviction at a time when others are abandoning this early-ripening French grape due to climate change. Mr. Motta is not one to shy away from a challenge and, better still, his goal is to reach the grape's maximum potential. The Fattoria La Massa microclimate, located in a sunny amphitheater of vines in Panzano in Chianti, is one compelling reason to believe in his vision. This is a production of six barriques, or 1,800 bottles. Dry ice and cold rooms are used during harvest, and those cool temperatures are carefully tweaked throughout fermentation, with 28 days on the skins. The fruit comes from the eastern side of his property, which is slightly cooler, and the selection process is rigorous. What you get is a voluptuous and rich expression. But unlike Merlot from the Tuscan Coast, Asiram has the detailed minerality and sharp focus of inland Chianti Classico. This is a wine for collectors and for those who just really love Merlot.”