2019 Ardingo
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Tasting notes
Aged in oak for 24 months, the Conti Costanti 2019 Merlot Ardingo reveals a dark, inky appearance and rich fruit weight. The flavor profile is ripe and savory with dark syrup and blackberry confit. The effect is quite extracted and heavy. The alcohol content is measured at 14.5%, but it feels like more than that. This is a production of 5,180 bottles, 120 magnums and 10 double magnums. We don't see many Merlots from Montalcino, and I applaud these efforts to interpret this beautiful Tuscan territory with a grape other than Sangiovese.
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Average Score
Monica Larner, Wine Advocate
Eric Guido, Vinous
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Hauntingly dark and viral in the glass, the 2019 Ardingo reaches up with notes of sweet sage, blueberry compote, tobacco and hints of pine. It soothes the palate with a wave of silken red and blue fruits, taking on a graphite minerality over time, as notes of lavender and violet resonate throughout. The 2019 takes a turn toward the savory spectrum with hints of olive and grilled herbs offsetting plum while finishing with impressive length and structurally balanced for the long haul. The Ardingo is a blend of 70% Merlot and 30% Sangiovese from vines planted on the Montosoli hill. It’s a must-have for fans of Costanti.