During my visit to Barone Ricasoli, Francesco Ricasoli described the 2018 vintage as challenging and 2019 as balanced. The 2018 Casalferro, made from 100% Merlot, takes on that challenge. The last vintage we saw was 2016, because this wine was not produced in the scorching hot 2017 vintage. In fact, this edition was released later than normal and the price point is higher. The bottle sports a new design. Cool-climate fruit, sourced from various sites, including one that is located 500 meters above sea level, is the Casalferro secret. It delivers vertical power and intensity with dark fruit, spice and dried mint. This wine is drinking beautifully right now.