The 2010 Friuli Colli Orientali Merlot is aged in oak for 16 months and delivers ripe cherry, blackberry jelly, leather, tobacco and spice. The quality of the mouth-feel is smooth and fine. The wine is drinking beautifully right now, showing the balance and finesse that is characteristic of the 2010 vintage. The fruit is definitely on the ripe and plump side, but is well contained within the wine’s tightly knit structure. Drink: 2014-2017. Importer: Domaine Select Wine Estates, www.domaineselect.com