Mario Schiopetto founded his eponymous estate in the 1960s and today the winery produces some of Italy's finest white wines. However, the Schiopetto Rivarossa demonstrates that Fruili can make interesting red wines too. With Friuli on a similar latitude to Bordeaux it is no surprise that the Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes thrive in the region as Rivaross is testimony to. A blend dominated by Merlot (90%) alongside 10% Cabernet Sauvignon the wine is barrel-aged for approximately 14 months. It displays black cherry, tobacco leaf, liquorice and stewed plum aromas. The palate is ripe, velvety and dark with broad tannins and fine acidity. [#intro]A top class red that offers great value in comparison to its Super-Tuscan counterparts...[/intro]