The Merlese grape variety in Emilia-Romagna represents one of the most fascinating and innovative wine research projects of recent decades, born as an exclusive organic cross between the Sangiovese and Merlot varieties. This extraordinary variety was conceived and developed by Umberto Cesari in collaboration with the Faculty of Agriculture of the University of Bologna. The result is a unique grape that combines the aromatic elegance and vibrant acidity of Sangiovese with the warm, velvety softness of Merlot, giving life to highly structured wines capable of best expressing the contemporary identity of the Romagna region.

What is the Merlese grape variety and where was it born?

The Merlese grape is a red variety born from a precise planned hybridization, whose parents are Sangiovese, the undisputed symbol of Romagna viticulture, and Merlot, a famous international grape variety perfectly integrated into the local climate. This union is not the result of chance, but of a long journey of scientific research initiated in the hills of Castel San Pietro Terme, in Emilia-Romagna. The researchers’ objective was to overcome the agronomic and oenological limitations of the individual grape varieties, creating a plant that could express the freshness of Sangiovese together with the roundness of Merlot.

The birth of Merlese dates back to studies conducted by the winery’s technical team in close synergy with researchers from the University of Bologna. Through rigorous selection and years of experimental micro-vinifications, a stable and registered genetic profile was achieved, officially recognized among the varieties suitable for cultivation in the Emilia-Romagna region. Merlese thus inherits the best characteristics of both parents: cherry and red fruits typical of Sangiovese blend with the spices and enveloping body of Merlot, finding a perfect balance in the clay and limestone soils typical of this hilly area.

Who are the producers of the Merlese grape variety in Emilia-Romagna?

The only producer and guardian of the Merlese grape variety in Emilia-Romagna is the Umberto Cesari winery. Founded in 1964, the company has made the enhancement of the Romagna hilly territory its fundamental mission, combining tradition with a constant drive towards scientific research.

The grapes are cultivated in selected plots, in particular in the vineyards of the famous Podere Liano. In this estate, the optimal slopes, constant sun exposure, and soil composition allow the grape variety to fully develop its aromatic and structural potential. Thanks to the use of precision viticulture (which includes the use of dedicated weather stations and vigor maps), the company’s technicians monitor the health of every single vine, harvesting the grapes only at the perfect stage of phenolic ripeness.

Sustainable red wines from the Merlese grape in Emilia-Romagna

The production of red wines in Emilia-Romagna has taken a decisive ecological turn, and the Merlese grape variety fits into this scenario as a virtuous example of sustainable red wine. The winery cultivates its vineyards following the principles of SQNPI (National Quality System for Integrated Production) certified integrated agriculture, which involves minimal use of water resources and a total ban on chemical herbicides, replaced by natural techniques such as controlled grassing and the contribution of organic matter to preserve the biological vitality of the soil.

In the winery, sustainability meets the most advanced technologies to guarantee the integrity of the Merlese grape variety. The hand-harvested grapes, after a rigorous optical selection to eliminate any impurities, remove unripe or damaged berries, and discard tendrils and unripe grapes to ensure uniform sugar and phenolic levels, are vinified using vitrified concrete tanks and cocciopesto containers. These materials, thanks to their natural thermal inertia and gentle micro-oxygenation, promote harmonious fermentation without altering the primary aromas of the grape. The resulting wine, classified as Rosso Rubicone IGT, expresses the purity of the fruit, minimizing the need for invasive oenological interventions.

Umberto: the pure expression of Merlese

The culmination of this journey of innovation is represented by Umberto, an extraordinary wine produced with 100% Merlese grapes. This label was created to celebrate a very important milestone: the 60 harvests of the company’s founder, Umberto Cesari, a man who dedicated his entire life to redefining the qualitative boundaries of Romagna viticulture.

The aging of this wine involves a period in concrete tanks and cocciopesto containers, followed by a rest of at least 6 months in the bottle. This choice allows the original characteristics of the grape variety to be kept intact, without the excessive use of wood overpowering the fruity and spicy notes.

• Visual appearance: the wine has an intense and deep ruby red color, enhanced by bright violet reflections that testify to its freshness and vitality.
• Olfactory profile: the nose opens with a broad and enveloping bouquet. The fresh notes of cherry and small red fruits inherited from Sangiovese blend with elegant hints of plum, blackberry, and spicy nuances of black pepper and clove, typical of Merlot.
• Taste profile: on the palate, it reveals a rich, full-bodied structure. The vibrant acidity cleanses the palate, while the natural softness of Merlese envelops the mouth in a velvety sip. The tannins are firm yet smooth, ensuring a long and pleasant finish. The alcohol content stands at 14.5% vol.

How to pair Umberto wine with food

The gastronomic versatility of Umberto wine derives directly from its dual soul. Its balanced acidity contrasts beautifully with the richness of food, while its structured softness supports intense and complex dishes.

The ideal pairings include:

• Savory first courses: tagliatelle with game ragù, rich risottos (such as black rice with sausage), and traditional baked lasagna.
• Meat main courses: stewed red meats, stews, game, and the classic chicken cacciatore.
• Cheeses and cured meats: perfect in combination with blue cheeses (such as goat blue cheese) or aged cheeses. It also pairs wonderfully with a platter of cured meats accompanied by warm tigelle and crescentine. And for those with a sweet tooth, it is perfect with a cherry jam tart.

Thanks to its unique profile, this wine represents an excellent choice both for collectors looking for rare wines and for restaurateurs wishing to offer an authentic, innovative experience deeply linked to the Emilia-Romagna region.

Frequently asked questions