Merlot le Premier 750ml

The Merlot le Premier 2020 brings the calm, generous side of Valais into the glass: ripe dark fruit, fine spice, round structure and a warm melt that immediately evokes festive cuisine, reduced sauces and slowly cooked vegetables.

On the nose, there are black cherries, plums, blackberries and a hint of blueberry. This is complemented by cocoa, dark chocolate, a bit of coffee, dried herbs and a subtle spice that gives the wine depth. The 2020 vintage already appears beautifully set: the fruit is ripe, the aroma calm and the presentation harmonious.

On the palate, it is dry, round and full-bodied. The dark fruit remains juicy, the tannins are polished and well integrated, and the acidity keeps the wine in balance. At 13.7% vol., it has enough power for festive dishes, yet remains accessible and pleasantly flowing. The finish carries plum, cocoa, black cherry and fine spice for a long time.

Merlot comes from a traditional grape family: Its parents are Magdeleine Noire des Charentes and Cabernet Franc. In the Valais, it shows its enjoyable side here – not as a muscular wine, but as a red wine with fullness, warmth, and a sure sense for good food.

Culinarily, this Merlot belongs to dishes with depth and melt: veal cheeks, saltimbocca, roast veal with herb jus, ossobuco, porcini risotto, saffron risotto with Sbrinz, aubergine involtini, braised peppers, oven-roasted beets, celery puree or lentils with root vegetables and herbs.

Serving tip: enjoy at around 14 °C. A large glass and a bit of air bring fruit, cocoa, and spice beautifully together.

A Merlot like a good sauce: dark, calmly structured, and strongest when given a little time.