The Famiglia Cotarella 2020 Merlot Sodale Cotarella represents terrific value. The undisputed theme of this wine is softness, and you get plenty of ripe, velvety fruit as a result. Black cherry and plum are framed by mild spice and cured tobacco. This is a medium-bodied red with melting tannins to pair with a classic plate of roast or fried chicken.
Score: 91 points -- Monica Larner, The Wine Advocate, 2023