“A rich, bombastic wine, the 2009 Poggio ai Merli has tons of Merlot personality, but the acidity and structure is pure Chianti Classico. Sage, rosemary, menthol and licorice add complexity as this muscular, virile wine opens up in the glass. As is to be expected with Merlot, the Poggio ai Merli clearly reflects the personality of the hot year. With the passage of time, though, Castellare's Merlot has become increasingly Tuscanized. This is another gorgeous wine from Castellare.”