Castellare di Castellina’s Poggio ai Merli 2019 is a 100% Merlot positioned as the estate’s flagship international-variety red, bottled as Toscana IGT. The fruit comes from a single site in Tuscany planted at roughly 350–400 meters on limestone-rich soils, with very low yields reported by the producer. Winemaking emphasizes polish and concentration: fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel with full malolactic, followed by extended élevage of about two years in French barriques (around half new) and additional bottle aging.

In the glass, the 2019 reads as a distinctly Tuscan take on Merlot—ripe and dark-fruited, but kept on track by structure and savory detail. James Suckling awarded an excellent 94 points, calling it “a pretty red with aromas of blueberries, plums, incense and tea leaves,” adding that it is “full-bodied and structured with a creamy texture and firm, chewy tannins,” with a “vibrant, long finish.” He suggests, “Try in 2023.”

Wine Spectator also rated it an excellent 94 points and leans into the wine’s depth and freshness: “This rich red is saturated with black cherry, black currant, tar, wild rosemary and cedar flavors.” The magazine notes it is “beautifully layered, ripe and fresh,” finishing with “a lingering fruity and savory aftertaste and refined tannins.” Wine Spectator reports production details that underscore its limited scale: “500 cases made, 100 cases imported,” and gives a drinking window of “now through 2030.”

Antonio Galloni (Vinous) scored it 92 points, describing “a dark, fleshy wine that will drink well right out of the gate,” with “spice, leather, new oak and tobacco” adding “hints of Chianti Classico savoriness” to the “lush Merlot fruit.” He also notes “enough tannic grip to age well for many years to come.”