Masseto 2008

A powerhouse vintage for Italy's benchmark single-vineyard Merlot, Masseto 2008 is unquestionably one of the greatest expressions of pure Merlot to be found anywhere.

Incredibly deep, rich notes of black fruits, chocolate, earth and liquorice combine with fabulous purity of fruit, polished tannins and a huge finish. The wine boasts tons of energy in a tense, inward style, with a deep core of black fruit, grilled herbs, liquorice and new leather, and tannins that remain still imposing at close to two decades of age.

• Producer: Masseto (Tenuta dell'Ornellaia)
• Country: Italy
• Region: Tuscany
• Appellation: Bolgheri (Toscana IGT)
• Vintage: 2008
• Grape: 100% Merlot
• Bottle size: 75cl
• Alcohol: 14.5% ABV
• Style: Full-bodied dry red wine, now drinking well
• Critic score: 99 points, James Suckling
• Serving temperature: 16-18C
• Decanting: Decant 1 hour before serving
• Food pairing: Beef Wellington, roast venison, mature hard cheeses
• Storage: Store horizontally in a cool, dark place with a stable temperature
• Drinking window: Drinking well now, with an anticipated maturity window of 2018 through 2033