Stuccara (1987)

About this wine

This 1987 Merlot from Collio, Italy, presents a deep garnet hue, indicative of its age. The nose reveals a blend of dried cherries, plums, and subtle earthy notes. On the palate, it offers a harmonious balance of fruit and tertiary flavors, with soft tannins and a lingering finish. The Collio region, known for its unique terroir, imparts distinctive characteristics to this wine. A testament to the aging potential of Merlot from this area.

About the grape

Merlot, originally from France, was introduced to Italy's Friuli-Venezia Giulia region in 1869 by Count Teodoro de La Tour. It quickly became the area's most popular red grape, thriving in the unique 'ponca' soil—a mix of marl and sandstone—that imparts distinctive minerality to the wines. In the Collio region, Merlot is often crafted as a single-varietal wine, showcasing its adaptability and the terroir's influence. The 1987 Pra Di Pradis Stuccara is an example of this tradition, reflecting the region's commitment to producing quality Merlot wines.

Quick facts

• 🍇 The 1987 vintage in Northern Italy, including the Collio region, was considered average, with wines often displaying moderate aging potential.
• 🍷 Collio, located in Friuli-Venezia Giulia, is renowned for its white wines, but also produces notable reds like Merlot.
• 🍒 Merlot, the primary grape in this wine, is known for its soft tannins and approachable fruit flavors, making it a popular choice worldwide.
• 🏰 The name 'Stukara' suggests a unique branding, possibly reflecting local dialect or family heritage.
• 🕰️ Wines from this era, if well-stored, can develop complex tertiary aromas such as dried fruits, leather, and earthy notes.

Palate profile

Producer

The Prà winery, established in the early 1980s by Graziano Prà, is located in Monteforte d'Alpone, near Verona, Italy. Graziano, along with his brothers Flavio and Sergio, built upon their family's agricultural heritage to produce high-quality wines. The winery is renowned for its Soave Classico wines, crafted from Garganega and Trebbiano di Soave grapes grown in volcanic soils. In 2001, Prà expanded into red wine production by acquiring vineyards in the Valpolicella region, focusing on traditional varieties like Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella, and Oseleta. Committed to organic farming, the estate emphasizes sustainable practices and minimal intervention to highlight the unique terroir of their vineyards.