The 2009 Merlot Crosara comes across as very ripe in this vintage. There is no shortage of intensity as layers of fruit built effortlessly to the long, opulent finish. It will be interesting to see where the 2009 goes from here given the wine’s outstanding track record of ageability. Maculan gave the Crosara 12 months in 100% new French oak barrels. In my view, this wine is being released far too early. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024.
This is another strong set of wines from Fausto Maculan, one of the leading lights in Veneto. My only real criticism is that the top reds are being released far too early for wines of such pedigree. These wines rank among the very best being made anywhere, but it is not surprising they remain relatively unknown considering they arrive in the marketplace too young to be fully appreciated. Sadly, there is no new release of the flagship Acininobili, but there are plenty of other great choices in this strong line-up.
A Leonardo Lo Cascio Selection, Winebow, Montvale, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620