A pure expression of Merlot, the Frescobaldi 2016 Lamaione Tenuta CastelGiocondo is plush, layered and soft. Merlot does not have much of a track record in this part of Tuscany, save for the big estates (like Frescobaldi) who have the resources and vineyard space to plant this French grape in what is a sacred land of Sangiovese. But if Montalcino didn't have such a monoculture dedicated to a single grape variety, there would indeed be ample space for a grape like this. You get a cool-climate interpretation of Merlot with lots of ruby cherry, cedarwood and sweet spice in this enjoyable 15,000-bottle release.