Messorio Le Macchiole 2016 (750ML)

99 Points, Monica Larner, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "This expression of Merlot is explosive and profound. The 2016 Messorio presents an absolute textbook rendition of Merlot that can be read and appreciated in terms of the layering and overlapping textures of the wine as it rolls over the palate. There is a point of sweetness on the palate, and the wine also shows a bright point of acidity that makes for a great balancing act. I tasted this wine twice, and at my first tasting, I tried it next to the 2015 vintage, thus putting me in a better position to directly compare the two. Whereas the 2015 edition came off as more velvety and soft, the 2016 vintage displays exceptionally crafted precision. This is an incredible wine. Fermentation occurs in cement vats, and the wine goes into barrique for 19 months. Some 11,000 bottles were made." 5/19

97 Antonio Galloni, Vinous: "With the 2016 Messorio, Le Macchiole moves from a wine of unctuous power to one of total refinement. Aromatic, translucent and striking in its nuance, the 2016 is flat out stunning. The flavors are fresh, vibrant and beautifully delineated. More than anything else, through the 2016 shows the present-day Macchiole style off to great effect. Another year in bottle has done wonders for the Messorio, which is even more arresting in its beauty today than it was last year." 03/20.

96+ Antonio Galloni, Vinous: "The 2016 Messorio is the most reticent of Le Macchiole's 2016s. Dense and closed in on itself. Stylistically, Messorio is the wine in this range that lies closest to the Macchiole style of years past. Readers will have to be patient with 2016. Time in the glass softens the wine nicely but it will be at least a few years before it is close to being ready to drink. The wine's persistence and overall harmony bode very well for the future." 3/19

95-96 Points, James Suckling: "A layered and rich red with currant and berry character plus lots of oyster shell. Shows balance and strength. Full, tannic yet polished. Shows excellent potential. 100% merlot." 9/17