Merlot has gotten a bad rap lately. Whether it’s a repruccussion for the movie “Sideways” or that it has fallen out of fashion, Merlot has been in a bit of a slump. We aim to break this noble grape variety out of it’s slump, and whether you’re a fan or a skeptic this tasting is sure to blow you out of the water. We’ve compiled a line-up of some of the best and most sought after Merlot’s from the famed region of Tuscany. These are some of the most complex and ageworthy wines in the world, reaching astronomical prices and receiving unreal accolades year after year.

The line-up includes:

2002 Feudi di San Gregorio Patrimo

This is a blockbuster Merlot from one of Campania’s greatest producers brimming with Blackberry preserves, sweet spices, eucalyptus, vanilla and coffee. Wine Spectator claims the 2002 is the best Patrimo produced to date...you’ll have to see for yourself.

2003 Tua Rita Redigaffi

This is the top wine from this iconic estate and is a legend in it’s own right. A true cult wine with a price tag to match this was only the second Italian wine to ever score a perfect 100 points from Robert Parker (for the 2000 vintage). Another blockbuster in this warm vintage this plush, seductive Merlot is sure to impress.

2006 Petrolo Galatrona

Although potentially less known than some of the wines in this line-up, the Galatrona is sure to be a knockout in this exceptional vintage. A beautiful harmony between elegance and power define this wine, showing beautifully now with the ability to cellar for many years to come.

2005 Ornellaia Masseto

For wine geeks no further description is required. From one of the true innovators of the super-tuscan genre, this Merlot sourced exclusively from a 7 hectare “Masseto” vineyard is extremely small production and is one of the world’s truly exceptional wines. This wine generally doesn’t even make it on the shelf here at Bin 905 as it is snapped up before we have the chance! We’ve hidden this bottle aside especially for this tasting, so be sure not to miss out.

Le Macchiole Messorio

How do you finish what is quite possibly the best Italian Merlot tasting ever conceived (not that we’re biased or anything)? With two outstanding vintages of Messorio side by side...that’s how. Once again, a wine that may need no further introduction. Extremely low yields and borderline insane attention to detail produce what is year in and year out arguably the greatest Merlot in Italy. Both 2001 and 2004 were outstanding vintages which were realeased with much hype (including a perfect 100 point score from Wine Spectator for the 2004) and this is sure to be an experience to remember.

Make sure you reserve a spot because this tasting is red hot and sure to sell out! Give us a call at (403)-261-1600.

WHEN: Friday November 6, 2009
WHERE: In the fabulous BIN 905 tasting room
WHAT: Iconic Italian Merlot
WHO: Hosted by Sommelier Jesse Willis
WHY: The creator’s of “Sideways” will feel a sharp kick to the chest after this tasting...delivered by Karma.
HOW MUCH: $125