The Magic of Merlot Bianco: A Comparison of Two Wines
The world of wine is rich in nuances, and when talking about Merlot, the mind immediately goes to full-bodied, structured red wines. However, today we will focus on two unique interpretations: Merlot vinified in white and the rare Merlot Bianco. These two versions of Merlot differ not only in the grapes themselves but also in their production methods. Furthermore, we will explore the differences between two of our white wines: Chiar di Luna and Blank Angel.
Red Berry Merlot Vinified in White
Merlot vinified in white is a winemaking technique applied to red Merlot grapes, but the final result is a white wine. This process involves preventing the skins from coming into contact with the must during fermentation, which allows for a light color. The skin of red grapes is the main contributor to the red color of wine. In Ticino, this technique has gained significant symbolic value: Merlot vinified in white represented a creative solution to a Merlot red production crisis in the 1980s.
The absence of skin contact not only alters the color but also the aromatic profile. Merlot vinified in white retains some characteristics typical of red Merlot, such as structure and fullness of body, but develops a fresher and more delicate bouquet, with notes of white flowers, fresh fruit, and a pleasantly lively acidity.
Merlot Bianco: A Rare and Unique Grape Variety
On the other hand, we have Merlot Bianco, a rare and little-known grape variety, an exception in the world of Merlots. It is a white-berried variety that arrived in Ticino thanks to our ambitious project that began over 10 years ago. Through collaboration with a French supplier of grapevine cuttings, we studied and selected a completely new variety for our vineyards: a cross between Folle Blanche and Merlot Noir. This grape produces wines that are completely different, with a more floral and mineral profile, ideal for creating white wines of great freshness and harmony. Merlot Bianco stands out for its ability to express delicate aromas of white flowers and citrus, with hints of peach and candied fruit, offering a lighter and more refined tasting experience.
Blank Angel and Chiar di Luna: Two Wines, Two Worlds
Delea produces two exceptional wines that best express these two interpretations of Merlot: Blank Angel and Chiar di Luna.
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Chiar di LunaThis wine is made from Merlot vinified in white with gentle pressing and fermentation at controlled temperature. It is one of Delea's historical labels and one of the most appreciated wines. Chiar di Luna is characterized by its paper-white color with greenish reflections and a bouquet rich in white flowers, linden, and white peach. On the palate, it is dry, savory, and persistent, with a good structure that makes it suitable for a variety of food pairings, from summer salads to lake fish. |
Blank AngelMade with the rare Merlot Bianco grapes, grown in Delea's vineyards in Ticino, thanks to an ambitious project started by Angelo Delea. Blank Angel is an innovative and elegant wine. The first vintage, 2022, after 12 months of aging in 300-liter oak barrels, was released in October 2023. Its color is light, almost transparent, and its aromas are refined, with notes of white flowers and citrus, with a finish of fresh fruit and candied fruit. On the palate, Blank Angel offers a unique freshness, with a balanced acidity that makes it perfect to pair with light dishes such as fish and fresh cheeses. |
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