Artesana Tannat Merlot 2010 out of Canelones, Uruguay
Tasting
Notes
2/1/12
Uruguay may be one of the last frontiers for wine in the western world in terms of consumer awareness. The very nature of its signature grape, Tannat, doesn’t necessarily make it an easy entry point for consumers as the varietal can be termed somewhat rustic and firm. This new boutique producer into our market has rounded off some of Tannat’s harder edges with the infusion of Merlot into the blend. Not as angular or tannic as many we have tried from Uruguay, the Merlot seems to round out the tannic bight of the Tannat, adding some suppleness to the palate to go along with the combo of spicy red and darker fruit flavors. This plays a nice a nice tension between Old and New World stylistically, with more New World sleekness and generosity. This screams for grilled meats which plays perfectly with the culture from where it came.....
