2014 Avignonesi Desiderio Merlot

The Desiderio Merlot is named after the white bull you see on the label. This impressive animal, weighing 1,673 kg / 3,688 lbs, lived on Avignonesi's estate Le Capezzine towards the end of the 19th century. He was, in fact, the largest bull in Cortona and was used to sire the rest of the cattle from the local breed "Chianina" in the region. The Chianina has earned its fame as the breed which gives us the delicious meat for the famous "bistecca fiorentina " (Florentine T-bone steak) and is easily recognizable due to its striking white colour. The bull Desiderio is known and recognized as one of the forefathers of the Chianina breed, together with another bull by the name of Donetto. In fact, when you savour a bistecca fiorentina today, there is a good chance you will find some Desiderio DNA in it. Avignonesi decided to honour this majestic animal by naming one of its most emblematic wines after it: the Desiderio Merlot, which, just like the bull, is full, impressive, and sensual.