Famiglia Cotarella Montiano 2017

Deep ruby red in color, this acclaimed Merlot opens with aromas of blackberry, dark cherry, cassis, mint, and sweet spice. The palate is rich and refined, offering concentrated dark fruit, smoky nuances, and elegant structure supported by fine-grained tannins. The finish is long, polished, and remarkably persistent.

Food Pairing: Pairs best with grilled steaks, braised beef, lamb chops, wild game, mushroom dishes, and aged hard cheeses.

95 Points - James Suckling

So much going on here with overtures of blackberries, dark cherries and finer, spicier notes of saffron, paprika and dried cloves. The resoluteness of the tannins tames the wild dark fruit here, giving a clear indication of ripeness, but also structure and finesse. Drink from 2025.

95 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

The 2017 Montiano is vibrant and spicy with immediate vertical lift and dark fruit intensity. Textural structure and aromatic lift frame layers of dark fruit and blackberry with a hint of bright mint on the close. A terrific bottle.

91 Points - Wine Spectator

A sleek, harmonious red, medium- to full-bodied, with fine-grained tannins enmeshed with flavors of cassis and black cherry fruit, apple wood smoke and bay leaf. The firm finish is well-spiced and lingering. Drink now through 2027.