Antinori - Guado al Tasso : Cont'Ugo 2022

Made with 100% Merlot, the Marchesi Antinori 2022 Bolgheri Rosso Guado al Tasso Cont'Ugo reveals a soft and velvety texture with mature aromas of baked blackberry, rhubarb and even a hint of sweet strawberry. This was a very hot vintage, on par with 2017 or even warmer in places, and also characterized by reduced water reserves. These results are perhaps lower on the complexity scale and also quite up front, ripe and immediately generous. It reveals all its cards in one hand.

Distinctly fruity, this red features black cherry, blackberry, plum, licorice, cedar and oak spice aromas and flavors. A supple version, with terrific balance and a long aftertaste. Shows just enough grip to lend serious weight. Merlot. Drink now through 2032. 600 cases imported.

The 2022 Cont'Ugo, 100% Merlot, offers terrific freshness, especially for the year. There's a bit of edginess in the tannin from the challenges of the growing season. Even so, what comes through most is the move toward greater vibrancy in the wines.