Wines Ticino PDO Zanini - Ligornetto Merlot - 2014

Viniou Reviews

Zanini's Cuvée Ligornetto Merlot 2014 from the Ticino DOC is a beautiful representation of Swiss Merlot. This wine is crafted exclusively from Merlot grapes, which thrive in this southern region of Switzerland. The 2014 vintage experienced favourable weather, allowing full ripeness and complexity in the fruit. The vinification process, carefully managed by the Zanini estate, tends towards classic Bordeaux-inspired methods: hand harvesting, attentive sorting, and crianza in oak barriques lend both structure and finesse. In the glass, the Cuvée Ligornetto reveals deep ruby hues and perfumes of ripe black cherries, subtle violet, roasted coffee and a gentle touch of sweet spice. On the palate, it is dry, medium to full-bodied, with a silky tannic structure, good freshness, and persistent finish.

Ticino, located on the southern slopes of the Swiss Alps along the Italian border, enjoys the mildest climate in Switzerland. The region is characterised by its warm summers, moderate rainfall, and cooling mountain influences, creating the ideal environment for Merlot, which covers about three-quarters of local vineyards. Soils in Ticino are predominantly granitic, often sandy or with clay-limestone patches that impart freshness and minerality to the wines. Viticulture here is relatively young compared to other Swiss regions, having expanded significantly since the late nineteenth century, but has quickly gained recognition—particularly for its high-quality Merlot.

This elegant Merlot pairs naturally with classic Ticinese dishes such as brasato al Merlot (beef braised in Merlot), risotto with porcini mushrooms, or polenta with luganighe sausage. It also complements roasted lamb, well-aged cheeses like Sbrinz, and mushroom-based dishes. The wine’s supple structure and aromatic complexity mean it performs beautifully with both rustic and refined cuisine.

For optimal enjoyment, decant this wine for about an hour before serving. The ideal tasting temperature is 16-18°C, which allows the bouquet to open fully and the texture to become velvety on the palate. Enjoy now or cellar for a few years for further evolution.