The 2009 Merlot is an attractive, juicy red laced with sweet dark berries, herbs and spices. Herbal notes become more prominent as the wine sits in the glass, but there is more than enough fleshiness in the fruit to provide balance. This is a typical, mid-weight Friulian red that is best enjoyed over the next 2-3 years. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2014. Importer: Vinifera Imports, Ronkonkoma, NY; tel. (631) 467-5907

The 2008 Merlot opens with a blast of super-ripe dark fruit. This turns decidedly more linear on the palate but retains just enough intensity to provide balance. Smoke, herbs and licorice add complexity on the finish. The Merlot is a very typical red from Friuli. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2014. Importer: Vinifera Imports, Ronkonkoma, NY; tel. (631) 467-5907

The 2007 Merlot is an attractive, plump wine packed with jammy, super-ripe fruit and minerals. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2012. Importer: Vinifera Imports, Ronkonkoma, NY; tel. (631) 467-5907