Flora Cuvée Cabernet Merlot Riserva Alto Adige DOC 2022 - Girlan x 6

The Pedoclimatic Convergence and Architecture of the FLORA Riserva Cuvée

The FLORA Cabernet Merlot Riserva DOC represents one of the most authoritative and full-bodied expressions of Cantina Girlan, achieved by blending equal parts of two complementary Bordeaux varieties. The quality foundation of this Riserva builds on the synergy between two contrasting and complementary terroirs: 50% Cabernet Sauvignon and 50% Merlot are grown partly on the ventilated hillsides of Oltradige, at an altitude between 450 and 500 meters above sea level, and partly in the warmer plots of Bassa Atesina, characterized by deep, sandy soils. This complex environmental matrix allows the winery to blend high-altitude freshness with the perfect polyphenolic maturity of the valley floor.

Cellar Protocol: Gravity-Fed Vinification and Extended Barrique Aging

The processing of the 2022 vintage applies rigorous technological criteria oriented toward maximum extractive precision and fruit integrity. The manual harvest is performed using small bins to prevent premature compression of the berries. After destemming, the must is transferred exclusively by gravity into stainless steel tanks, eliminating the mechanical stress of pumping. The primary extraction cycle extends for a period of 18-20 days. Following the completion of malolactic fermentation, the wine undergoes an extended aging path of 20 months in oak barriques, 50% of which are first-fill oak. The final blend rests for an additional 8 months in glass before its release.

Sensory Profile of FLORA Riserva Trentino Alto Adige red wine

Extended aging in small oak barrels combined with the selection of the two distinct terroirs imparts an organoleptic framework of great tertiary depth and impeccable clarity to the cuvée.

• Blend and Classification: 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 50% Merlot / Alto Adige DOC
• Analytical Data (2022 Vintage): Alcohol Content: 14.00% Vol. / Aging: 20 months in barriques (50% new) and 8 months in the bottle.
• Visual Assessment: Deep and intense ruby red color, characterized by a dense chromatic weave and excellent viscosity upon swirling in the glass.
• Olfactory Framework: Broad, vinous, and multifaceted bouquet. Ripe red fruit jam and wild blackberry scents stand out on the nose, integrated by elegant and fresh balsamic notes of rosemary, thyme, and dark spices in the background.
• Palate Characteristics: The tasting reveals a dry, full-bodied profile of outstanding gastronomic volume. The progression displays a smooth and round texture, supported by a dense and perfectly integrated tannic structure that guides the pour toward a warm, savory, and exceptionally persistent finish.

Service Guidelines and Gastronomic Pairings

The structural depth and aromatic complexity of this Riserva qualify it as an important dining wine, ideal for rich land-based cuisine.

• Stable Pairings: It pairs magnificently with prominent dishes based on roasted or grilled red meats, feathered and furred game, traditional alpine stews, slow-cooked meats, and selections of sharp, aged local cheeses.
• Serving Method: To promote the development of the rich tertiary profile and ensure tannin integration, a serving temperature of 16 - 18°C is recommended.

Evolutionary Potential and Storage

The FLORA Cabernet Merlot Riserva displays solid longevity, possessing an aging potential in the cellar that easily extends beyond 10-15 years from bottling. For proper tertiary development, horizontal bottle storage is recommended in a completely dark environment at a constant temperature.