2023, Petrolo Galatrona, VALDARNO DI SOPRA, Italy

100% Merlot

GALATRONA is an exiting wine made by organic winemaker Luca Sanjust and considered by many to be a sure rival for Masseto - and a lot less expensive. The source for Galatrona is a single Merlot vineyard located within the confines of the centuries old Petrolo estate, perched in the hills just outside the eastern part of Chianti Classico.

The 2023 Galatrona is soft, plush and sensual. Dark blue/purplish fruit, cloves, new leather, menthol and liquorice all meld together in the glass. Soft, caressing contours shape this mid-weight, understated vintage of the estate's flagship wine. The 2023 is not a huge Galatrona but is instead a wine that impresses with its finesse. This is a step up from the 2022.
95 Antonio Galoni, Vinous.

Petrolo's 100% Merlot is one of Tuscany's flagship reds. 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 oak. 2026-2046.
95 James Button, Decanter Magazine.

Deep ruby red, medium concentration, enjoyably savoury and muscular Merlot, with plenty of Tuscan underbrush and blood orange edging. Organic certified.
93 Jane Anson