The 1996 Montiano (100% Merlot) was bottled unfined and unfiltered, after aging in French oak casks. Sadly, there are only 500 cases produced. It boasts an opaque purple color, followed by a knock-out nose of blackberry liqueur intermingled with smoke, pain grille, and chocolate. Full-bodied and thick, with a voluptuous texture, layered richness, superb purity, and a finish that lasts over 30 seconds, this is a profoundly concentrated and complex Merlot to drink now, and over the next 10-15 years. Kudos to Riccardo Cotarella.