This expression of Merlot is explosive and profound. The 2016 Messorio presents an absolute textbook rendition of Merlot that can be read and appreciated in terms of the layering and overlapping textures of the wine as it rolls over the palate. There is a point of sweetness on the palate, and the wine also shows a bright point of acidity that makes for a great balancing act. I tasted this wine twice, and at my first tasting, I tried it next to the 2015 vintage, thus putting me in a better position to directly compare the two. Whereas the 2015 edition came off as more velvety and soft, the 2016 vintage displays exceptionally crafted precision. This is an incredible wine. Fermentation occurs in cement vats, and the wine goes into barrique for 19 months. Some 11,000 bottles were made.
BOW (9.50)
Late release direct from Le Macchiole
Winespectator (96)
Dense and concentrated, featuring ripe blackberry and black cherry flavors. Serious tannins add structure, as does the lively acidity. All the elements cascade through the long, saturated finish, where iron, tobacco and herb notes emerge. The oak is well-integrated, and this is racy in the end. Merlot.
James Suckling (96)
Shows very ripe aromas on the nose with lightly burnt oranges, black olives and fresh dark berries and hints of walnuts, yet the palate is driven and very bright with ultra-fine tannins and a flavorful finish. Shows definition and tension.
Jancis Robinson (17.50)
100% Merlot.
Nutty oak over brooding, sweet, red fruit. Lots of juice and firm tannins on the palate, but sensationally balanced. This perfection comes at a price, though. (WS)
Vinous (97)
With the 2016 Messorio, Le Macchiole moves from a wine of unctuous power to one of total refinement. Aromatic, translucent and striking in its nuance, the 2016 is flat out stunning. The flavors are fresh, vibrant and beautifully delineated. More than anything else, through the 2016 shows the present-day Macchiole style off to great effect. Another year in bottle has done wonders for the Messorio, which is even more arresting in its beauty today than it was last year.
Jeb Dunnuck (97)
The 2016 Messorio is rich, expressive, and beautifully tailored. Ripe with lush fruit of boysenberry, plum, and candied violets, and a bit of vanilla bean spice, it is very pleasant and attractive. It is full and inviting on the palate and ripe with velvety tannins, and it offers elegant, polished notes of sweet plum, spice, and a lightly saline and long finish.
