Proprietor Enzo Pontoni farms a number of tiny Merlot parcels in the towns of Rosazzo and Buttrio, both in the Colli Orientali appellation in Friuli. The early Merlots were made from a combination of fruit from Rosazzo and Buttrio, but in 2004 Pontoni began experimenting with bottling the wines separately; giving birth to his Merlots Filip (Rosazzo) and Buri (Buttrio).

The Filip is generally rounder and more immediate while the Buri is firmer, fresher and more structured, with more complexity. I consider the Merlot Buri to be one of the nicest expressions of Merlot from this region, and these wines only go into bottle when Pontoni feels they are worthy. Accordingly, there was no Merlot in 1995, 1996, 2003 or 2005.

The 2006 Buri Merlot has velvety tannins and a perfect color. I can still remember the taste, the power of the fruit, it has a long length. The power of this wines carries a tightly knitted structure, the perfumes are pure and make it a real joy. In 2006 the Buri was made from eight tiny parcels in the town of Buttrio. (95+ Points)

There is an argument about whether or not the Buri is 100% Merlot and I believe it is. My friend convinced the Miani was not 100% Merlot he ordered a blind wine to test us. The blind wine tastes modern and has hints of toasted oak, smokey and slightly green on the nose. I guess the vintage within one year and I still felt it was not Merlot 100%. San Leonardo is Bordeaux blending and savory Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot are aged in small oak barrels – 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Cabernet Franc and 10% Merlot.

(92 Points)

Tenuta San Leonardo
Località San Leonardo – 38060 Borghetto A/Adige
Avio (TN) ITALY
Tel +39 0464 689004 – Fax +39 0464 682200
info@sanleonardo.it