The 2018 Toros Franco Toros Collio Merlot hails from the Collio region of Italy, a winery known for its quality, even though it excels in white wines. Merlot, an historic French variety, has found a beloved home in Friuli-Venezia Giulia, becoming a popular red wine in the region. The 2018 vintage has garnered positive attention, holding a respectable 4.0 rating on Vivino. This Merlot presents a beautiful ruby red color. On the nose, it is young and fruity, with a harmonious bouquet of red berries, notably blueberries, prune, and cherries, complemented by hints of tomato leaves, fennel, and rhubarb. Delicate notes of officinal herbs like mint and thyme, along with a light balsamic touch, add to its complexity. The palate is broad, deep, and mid-bodied, offering juicy flavors of blackberries and cherry. It features light and velvety tannins with subtle hints of undergrowth. Reviews also suggest notes of oak, tobacco, vanilla, leather, graphite, smoky nuances, licorice, pepper, dark fruit, and tropical fruit, indicating a wine with significant aging potential that still requires time to fully evolve. 【A splendid Collio Merlot from a house excelling in whites, showing significant aging potential】 Food pairing suggestions: This versatile red pairs wonderfully with typical local dishes such as mixed ham and cheeses, salami in vinegar, or brovada and muset. It also complements red meat, chicken, and moderately aged cheeses. Event suggestions: Perfect for enjoying with traditional Friulano cuisine, or for those who appreciate a red wine with promising aging prospects.