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A stunning expression of 100% Merlot: Galatrona has stood as one of Italy's most iconic single-varietal Merlots for decades.
The Petrolo estate, under the guidance of Luca Sanjust, has perfected the art of crafting Merlot that is both powerful and incredibly finessed. It’s one of the highest rated Merlot of Italy consistently and yet, the price is somehow manageable. Galatrona comes from a specific 10-hectare plot of clay-rich soil that imparts an incredible depth and texture to the wine. This is not a simple, fruit-forward Merlot; it is a wine of profound complexity and place. Expect a captivating nose of ripe black cherry, plum, and wild blackberry, woven with notes of violet, graphite, and the signature savory, almost balsamic herbs of the Tuscan countryside. The finish is exceptionally long and mineral-driven, a hallmark of this great estate. While its polish may make it tempting in its youth, this is a bottle that will reward patient cellaring for 15-20 years. This is a benchmark wine from a producer at the very top of their game.
Galatrona is the “Grand-Cru” of Merlot of Petrolo, only made with the grapes from the vineyard of the same name planted between the end of the 80’s and half of the 90’s with low vigor bordeaux clones. The peculiar soil, rich in clay in combination with schist, marl and sandstones, allows the concentration of all the noble components of the grapes, fundamental for the great structure, elegance, balance and persistence wanted for this wine.
Dark and plummy aromas are lifted by some invigorating blueberry notes, while in the mouth it showcases an intense, structural palate of sapid dark fruits and balsamic herbs. The oak influence peeks through as a layer of liquorice, then floral overtones segue into a zesty finish of orange peel and flecks of wood.
James Suckling describes the 2023 as "The aromas of black currants, graphite, lavender and violets are gorgeous. Black olives and walnuts, too. Medium-bodied with ultra-fine tannins, a racy texture and small black berry-like flavors. Iron undertones as well as dark chocolate, dried sage and rosemary. Vertical nature to this. One for the cellar. Pure merlot. From organically grown grapes. Best after 2030"
James Suckling 98/100
Vinous 95/100
Decanter 95/100
2028 - 2050
If drinking before 2030, we suggest decanting for at least 3 hours in a wide bottom decanter.
Food pairing : grilled meats, stews and hard cheeses.
