Chateau Purcari Merlot de Purcari 2022

Cellar for up to 5 years. No need to decant before serving. The oldest and most respected winery in Moldova, the history of Chateau Purcari stretches back to an official decree released by Tsar Nicolas I in 1827. The estate enjoyed a golden age in the 19th century with a slew of medals won at European wine shows. This success has now been repeated in the 21st century, with Chateau Purcari winning an impressive collection of medals at the Decanter World Wine Awards in 2019 and 2020. Bordeaux varieties like Merlot were originally planted here in this south-eastern part of Moldova by French settlers who recognised the land’s similarity to their native Bordeaux. The grapes for this bottling are carefully harvested by hand and vinified using traditional Moldovan winemaking methods. Ageing takes place in French oak barrels for 6 months prior to bottling. Luscious dark fruit notes dominate the nose including cassis, blackberries and ripe black cherries along with subtle hints of dark chocolate and tobacco leaf. On the palate the tannins are smooth and well-rounded and there are ample fruit flavours which linger on the tongue. The fruit-forward flavour profile makes it a great match for smoked duck breast, veal, charcuterie or a pork steak.

Price: £11.90 from 8wines UK