Variety: Merlot

Daniele Venica purchased the plot Ronco del Ceró where he first planted Sauvignon in 1930. Three generations later, great grandson Giampaolo has taken over the estate, a true testimony to the tradition of keeping winemaking in the family. Venica now has 40 hectares all within the DOC—Denomination of Controlled Origin—of Collio. Sons Gianni (agronomist), Giorgio (cellar master), and grandson Giampaolo oversee operations supplemented by help from several family members. They believe their traditions must be enhanced through continuous research and innovation, but a relationship with nature is of utmost importance.

Friuli-Venezia Giulia is known for its white wines, though Merlot has made a name for itself as the most popular red wine—it’s as if Merlot had originated there. It is identified on wine labels by name, not as a blend or by a regional name. This Merlot, like the other Venica wines, comes from a vineyard within the DOC of Collio. It is aged in barrel for 13 months.