Merlot

Crosara Breganze 2017 is a textbook Merlot: full of ripe dark fruits, blackberry pie, liquorice, chocolate, toasted oak and grilled herbs. Offering superb inner sweetness, it is both powerful and elegant, with a lush, super-soft mouthfeel. Pleasingly, a wonderfully focused mineral component saves the wine from ever being overdone. SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep nose with tapenade and olives on top of the minty blackberries, tar and black spices. Very compact and dense on the palate, with very firm tannins and fresh, medium acidity. A little tight and chewy, with a hint of bitter chocolate in the finish. Give it some time. Try in 2024." James Suckling

"The 2017 Crosara is deep and sweetly scented with violet and lavender perfumes giving way to black currants. This is textural and velvety in feel, with ripe red and black berries complemented by sweet spice and vibrant acidity. It tapers off long and floral with grippy tannins framing the expression nicely, and a twang of sour citrus perfectly completes the expression. The Crosara is a varietal Merlot from partially dried grapes." Vinous

Since the 2018 vintage, a small quantity of Merlot has been vinified separately for the first time at Rampolla, named after the mother Donna Liù. The unfiltered wine was aged for 12 months in terracotta amphora and is almost fermented to 0 g/l residual sugar. Very elegant, fresh nose of sour cherry, laurel and cassis. On the palate, fresh and without the sometimes exuberant opulence of some other Tuscan Merlots, with a precise cherry fruit and salty-minty component. A finely chiselled Merlot and hard to beat in terms of freshness, clarity and personality. It bridges the gap between the Chianti Classico and the two flagships of the house, Sammarco and d'Alceo. Needs a few more years of bottle ageing. SUPERIORE.DE

"Berries, cherries and violets with some black-olive and black-truffle notes. Very complex. Medium-to full-bodied with linear tannins that are polished and fine, running through the center palate. Tight at the end. Very pretty and racy. Unfiltered." James Suckling

"Bright and pure, this red exudes raspberry, cherry, floral and earth aromas and flavors. Elegant and alluring, offering fine balance and a long, fruit-filled aftertaste, with a hint of tobacco peeking through." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Merlot Liu' is another outrageously beautiful wine from Rampolla. Deep, inky and explosive, the 2019 possesses tremendous energy to match its purity of fruit. Blueberry, spice, leather, menthol and espresso build into the potent, tannic finish. Readers will find a serious Merlot packed with fruit and structure. Rampolla planted Merlot in 2000 and 2003 to soften Sammarco, but the vines turned out to be more productive than expected, giving birth to the Liu'. The 2019 was aged in cement and terracotta. I am not entirely sure how the Liu' will mature, but I also doubt that will be much a concern for the vast majority of readers." Vinous

"The Castello dei Rampolla 2019 Liù is a relatively new wine (the first vintage made was the 2018) and a pure expression of Merlot. The wine is generously endowed with lots of fruit flavor and a distinctive punchiness that adds a bright and lifted quality to the bouquet. It sports a mid-weight approach with plenty of summer fresh cherry, plum and other purple fruits. It's hard not to feel immediately attracted to this wine, especially given its very vivid and bright personality. You'll have a lot of fun drinking Liù straight out of the gate or likewise waiting for it to complete its bottle evolution." Wine Advocate

Galatrona is a pure Merlot in a class of its own. Black-red ruby in the glass. On the nose, black berries, fine wood spice and some leather. Very generous fruit aromas and extremely complex on the palate, it glides elegantly into the depths until it is caught by a finely woven tannin and passes into a long and finesse-rich finish. A wine that does not have to hide behind Masseto & Co., on the contrary, for us it has been Italy's Merlot benchmark for years. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, intense ruby with violet glints. Very clear and inviting nose, full of blueberry and blackberry, in addition fine tobacco notes, some cardamom. Juicy and endowed with lots of fresh fruit, shows polished tannin, grippy, after blackberries in the final, shows a fine spice carpet in the final." Falstaff

"A round, fruity red wine with ripe aromas of black cherries, blackberries, plums, graphite and spices. It starts soft and becomes firmer on the finish, where refined tannins come into play. It shows good balance but should be given a few more years to fully develop." Wine Spectator

"Some forest floor notes mingle with dark fruits and fresh herbs - liquorice and blackcurrant with hints of dark chocolate and thyme. Supple and mouth-filling, this wine has weight from the start, the tannins are massive, plush and fleshy, filling the mouth with rich, concentrated black fruit flavours. Detailed and precise, this wine has power and is well framed with high acidity giving the vitality to balance the concentration. A powerful wine, with real power, yet finesse." Decanter

"Dark berries, chocolate mousse, dried herbs and some chilli pepper heat show on the nose of this wine. The palate remains chocolaty but herbal, with a dark cherry and syrup finish contrasted by chalky, grainy tannins and lingering spiciness. An absolute delight in the best way." Wine Enthusiast

"The Petrolo 2020 Galatrona is a pure expression of organic Merlot and the winery's top wine. It was first created in 1994, when Luca Sanjust's second child, Lucia, was born. Despite the summer heat, which became a challenge for winemakers in many corners of Tuscany, Galatrona is showing excellent results in 2020. The vineyard is located in a cool and densely wooded area almost exactly between Florence, Arezzo and Siena. The vintage has a classic quality with a subtle bouquet that increases in intensity as the wine opens in the glass. Aromas of cherries, toasted almonds and dried mint accompany a long and very elegant finish. The oak tannins are soft and sweet, and the wine has a long-lasting flavour." Wine Advocate

"Subtle yet intense aromas of black fruits and violets. Extremely perfumed. Stomped stones. Medium-bodied with ultra-fine tannins that give a velvety mouthfeel that lasts minutes. Refined and fresh. Al-dente fruit." James Suckling

"The Galatrona 2020 is breathtaking. In fact, the 2020 is one of the best vintages of Galatrona I can remember tasting. I am particularly impressed by its vertical intensity and explosive energy. All the elements are so impeccably woven together. Dark fruits, crushed rocks, menthol, liquorice and spices lead into an intense finish that lingers on the palate. Great." Vinous

"The culmination of Luca Sanjust's revolutionary work at Petrolo, this Galatrona gets more exciting with each release: pure Merlot, nose of currants, with a finish of dogwood peel and bay leaf, crisp, salty mouthfeel, with a return of citrus and a long, mentholated finish." Luca Gardini

The vines of this fascinating cuvée grow on deep, loose moraine soil. The eye sees dark garnet red. Intense bouquet of flowers and black berries. The body of this cuvée is well structured, blackberry is joined by currant, some tobacco and a hint of tar. Fine tannins lead into a long and juicy finish. Great ageing potential! SUPERIORE.DE

"Packed with opulent blackcurrants, black cherries and violets with velvety tannins, a compact texture and a lush vanilla, chocolate core." Decanter

ÙE Merlot Gran Riserva matures sealed and supervised by the Italian Customs and Monopolies Authority for over 12 years in sherry casks from Jerez de la Frontera in the company's cellars.

Natural amber colour with a golden sheen. Very elegant on the nose with sweet scents of marzipan, sultanas, iris, violets and candied fruits, which are echoed in the lingering taste and with balsamic notes.

Glass bottle with diamond cut by hand, with a gold label printed by hand in silkscreen with the signature of the master distiller and chef de cave Benito Nonino. Without added colouring. SUPERIORE.DE

Galatrona is a pure Merlot in a class of its own. Black-red ruby in the glass. Black berries, fine woody spice and some leather on the nose. Very generous fruit flavours and extremely complex on the palate, it glides elegantly into the depths until it is picked up by a finely woven tannin and leads into a long and finesse-rich finish. A wine that has no need to hide behind Masseto & Co. On the contrary, for us it has been Italy's Merlot benchmark for years. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Galatrona from Petrolo is a highly acclaimed Merlot from Tuscany. It is aged for 18 months in large wooden barrels. Viscous, dark colour. The 2021 Galatrona has an aroma of herbs and spices, liquorice and some wood. Full, juicy and melting, it is much more aromatic in the mouth than on the nose. Intense tannins and a very racy acidity create a full structure of medium depth." Weinwisser

"Although seamless and lusciously saturated with aromas and flavours of blackcurrant, blackberry, violet, iron, tobacco and spice, this red is also solidly built, with polished tannins. Yet it's more about finesse and elegance than power, with a lively profile and a super-long finish." Wine Spectator

"Bright purple in the glass, gorgeous aromas of black cherry and blackcurrant with floral notes - this 100% Merlot smells wonderfully fragrant and inviting. On the palate it is supple, full-bodied and really seductive, sensual with silky but grippy tannins, beautifully ripe blackcurrant and cherry fruit and crisp acidity that is not too sharp or obvious but enlivens the palate and adds a kick and wonderful freshness to the overall expression. Beautifully presented, harmonious, balanced and absolutely enjoyable from the first to the last sip. A great wine, intense yet energetic, full of nuances of flavour and texture. A wine not to be sneezed at, although it still has plenty of potential for further ageing." Decanter

"The nose shows a wide world of spicy aromas, from red chalk and metal to wood and earth, with cranberries, redcurrants and dark berries as a sweet contrast. The palate reveals a lively flavour with the warmth of earth and freshly ripened fruit, accompanied by tart tannins that promise a long finish. An absolutely acrobatic feat when it comes to Merlot." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2021 Val d'Arno di Sopra Galatrona shows extremely focused aromas, but very generous ones all the while, with soft mint, cherry and stracciatella over a full-bodied texture with soft layers of spice and cedarwood. The wine boasts an elegantly chalky quality to the tannins, but the mouthfeel is so generous, everything irons out beautifully over the palate." Wine Advocate

"The Galatrona 2021 is a good successor to the 2020. In most vintages, the Galatrona is very noticeable right from the start. This is not at all the case with the 2021. This wine will need a few more years to show its best side. Black cherry, plum, mocha, leather, liquorice and incense give the 2021 enormous complexity. More than anything, I admire the sense of vertical, explosive energy that catapults the 2021 into the stratosphere. This is a great wine in every way." Vinous

"The flavours here are very pronounced with dried flowers such as lavender and violets. Also some sage. Black berries and black olive skin. Full-bodied yet straightforward and energetic with very fine tannins and a fantastic length. Fresh and lively on the finish. Best after 2026." James Suckling

"Brilliant dark ruby red colour. Noble, spicy nose of blackcurrants, fine earthy notes, a hint of dried rose petal, cigar box. Sweet and melting on the palate, interwoven with savoury, juicy tannins, elegant on the palate, comes back long and juicy on the final, with fine spicy notes, still a little young." Falstaff

Boscarelli's Merlot smells very complex and pleasant of ripe blueberries and plums, a little smoky and of roasted nuts. Firm and powerful on the palate, ripe, juicy, tart fruit and youthful but polished tannins. Wonderfully persistent, long, spicy and soft. SUPERIORE.DE

Smells intensely of redcurrants and black cherries, leather, spices and liquorice. Lush and flowing on the palate, all elements merge into a great, striking wine. Great potential! SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, bright ruby colour with a hint of violet and a delicately brightening rim. A compact nose of ripe blackberry and rich cherry, with elegant peppery spice and a fine malt flavour rounding off the bouquet. Polished and juicy on the palate, shows great entry with a racy, gripping finish, with a fine salty undertone, can be stored for a long time." Falstaff

"Impenetrable dark ruby. Rich blackberry and blueberry fruit with touches of cassis, bell pepper, black pepper and fully integrated oak. Juicy blackberry fruit with gritty elegant tannins and a lush finish. A very good wine from an unremarkable year." Jancis Robinson

"On the nose, there are spicy notes of thyme, sour cherries, lemon leaves and blackcurrants as well as black olives. It is full-bodied with firm, well-integrated tannins and a tangy kick of acidity. Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. From organically grown grapes. Drinkable from 2023." James Suckling

"Outstanding, elegant blend of Merlot with Cabernet Sauvignon: spicy forest fruit flavours, a powerful start, the tannins are fine-meshed and in balance with the acidity, the finish is berry-spicy and long." Vinum

"The Geremia 2018 is outstanding. A wine full of energy and finesse, the 2018 Geremia is more about persistence than volume. Blueberry, blackberry, lavender, liquorice and scorched earth are abundant. In 2018, Geremia is a wine of tension and restraint. Its best days are still far in the future. I wouldn't dream of touching a bottle anytime soon." Vinous

Intense and enveloping fragrance pleasure of blackberry and dark fruits and cocoa. On the palate, memorable, sturdy fruit and taut tannins give this Merlot its unique elegance. Pleasantly round, long and with traces of mint on the finish. SUPERIORE.DE

A study commissioned by Francesco Ricasoli has shown that there are 19 different types of soil on Brolio. This made it possible to precisely define the sites that are particularly good for Merlot, from which wines with a unique structure and unmistakable flavour emerge. With the 2018 vintage, Francesco Ricasoli is now presenting the "new" Casalferro, whose grapes come from the three different vineyards Vigna Casalferro, Vigna Pecchierino and Vigna Sodacci. The production volume has been drastically reduced, but the result is impressive!

A Tuscan Merlot as it is written in the book. On the nose, complex aromas of dark red fruit, delicate cedar wood, leather, very spicy. Initially taut and dense on the palate, it opens up as it progresses and expands with impressive elegance. The interplay between bouquet and complexity on the palate is perfectly balanced and its impressive size is already unmistakable. This Merlot will have a great future. SUPERIORE.DE

"Pure Merlot from (for the first time) three selected vineyards that are particularly suitable for the variety and a hit right from the start: complex nose with intriguing notes of blackcurrant, sandalwood, tobacco and pepper; harmony on the palate, which increases in fullness and density with aeration and yet retains its elegance." Vinum

"Noble, bright ruby red colour. The nose is barrel-spicy and reminiscent of precious woods, plum, blackberry, peppery-malty tones in the finish. Very fresh on the palate with crisp acidity, without missing its body, stretches out nicely, polished and with lots of juice, keeps coming back, put it down, will be a long-distance runner." Falstaff

"The 2018 Casalferro, Brolio's (Merlot) is a powerful, brooding wine, packed with dark fruit, espresso, dried herbs, menthol, liquorice, incense and cloves. This juicy, intensely flavoured red wine delivers a lot of impact, that much is clear." Vinous

"The secret of Casalferro is the fruit, which comes from different locations, including one that is 500 metres above sea level. It delivers vertical power and intensity with dark fruits, spices and dried mint. This wine is already drinking beautifully." Wine Advocate

"A very precise and beautiful Merlot with violets, spices and blackcurrants. Extremely perfumed. Medium-bodied with ultra-fine tannins and a long, polished finish that shows finesse and complexity. Delicious to drink now, but will get even better with age." James Suckling

"Beautiful intense ruby color, on the nose intense aromas of blueberry, currant and balsamic herbs. The taste is broad, elegant and of spectacular cleaning. Silky tannins, excellent drinkability." Luca Gardini

Dark ruby purple in colour, with a blackcurrant aroma and an outstanding length, firm tannins, fine extract sweetness and a pronounced spicy note on the final. We are excited to see what elegant heights this great Tuscan Merlot will reach in the coming years. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Cont'Ugo 2021 is packed with dark fruit, chocolate, new leather, liquorice and cloves. This luscious Merlot will drink well right from the start. It is the archetype of a Maremma red wine." Vinous

"Fresh and varietally expressive, this red bursts with cherry, black currant, olive, tobacco and sweet spice flavors. Balanced and open, with a lingering aftertaste of fruit and spices." Wine Spectator

"Ripe plums and blackberries with sweet spices, violets and chocolate on the nose. Full and structured with fine tannins. Compact and broad-shouldered, ripe, but with tension and energy. Impressive depth and concentration. Long." James Suckling

"Brilliant, medium ruby red colour. Intense nose of ripe cherries and juniper, with a fine woody spice and dark chocolate aftertaste. Balanced on the palate, with a concentrated fruit centre, fine-grained tannins and plenty of pressure right into the long finish." Falstaff

A study commissioned by Francesco Ricasoli has shown that there are 19 different types of soil on Brolio. This made it possible to precisely define the sites that are particularly good for Merlot, from which wines with a unique structure and unmistakable flavour emerge. With the 2018 vintage, Francesco Ricasoli is now presenting the "new" Casalferro, whose grapes come from the three different vineyards Vigna Casalferro, Vigna Pecchierino and Vigna Sodacci. The production volume has been drastically reduced, but the result is impressive!

A Tuscan Merlot as it is written in the book. On the nose, complex aromas of dark red fruit, delicate cedar wood, leather, very spicy. Initially taut and dense on the palate, it opens up as it progresses and expands with impressive elegance. The interplay between bouquet and complexity on the palate is perfectly balanced and its impressive size is already unmistakable. This Merlot will have a great future. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich ruby red with a garnet-red rim. Fresh sour cherries and plums on the nose, with violets and a touch of coriander in the background. Fruity and juicy on the palate, with well-integrated tannins and a long final." Falstaff

"A rich, dark expression of Merlot, this red walks the fine line between austerity and generosity, with the latter gaining prominence over the course of the fine finish. Dense, with the tight texture working in tandem with black cherry, blackberry, iron and spice flavours." Wine Spectator

"The Barone Ricasoli 2019 Casalferro showcases its potential in a classic vintage. The DNA of the wine, which is made exclusively from Merlot, is characterised by the grape variety, but the terroir also plays a major role in this presentation. You know you're drinking a wine from Tuscany thanks to a delicate bundle of flavours that includes wild cherry, violet fruit, violets and spices. This wine gives an Italian personality to a French grape variety." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 Casalferro is magnificent. Ripe dark cherry and plum fruit, liquorice, spice, new leather, menthol and mocha are combined in a generous, lush Merlot that offers much of the vibrancy of a Chianti Classico." Vinous

"Blueberry, plum and red and black berry scents mingle with wildflowers, spices and a hint of roasted coffee beans. Stony and sapid in the mouth, it's all about elegance with beautiful cool blue fruits accompanied by a touch of creaminess on the mid-palate, then a long, super-fresh and poised finish." Decanter

"Super flavours of fresh violets, black olives, crushed raspberries and blackberries. Also a hint of dried flowers. Full-bodied but compact and polished, with superbly crafted tannins that compress the palate and give it a velvety texture. Taut and concentrated. The most precise and refined Casalferro ever. It needs at least three or four years to show what it's made of, but it has great potential. Best from 2026 onwards." James Suckling

"Produced for the first time not only with the best grapes from the vineyard of the same name, but also with contributions from the Pecchierino and Sodacci vineyards, this is a pure Merlot of stature with intense aromas of blueberries, currants and balsamic herbs on the nose. The flavour is elegant and spectacularly clean. Salty and spicy tannins, excellent drinkability." Luca Gardini

Dark ruby purple in colour, with a blackcurrant aroma and an outstanding length, firm tannins, fine extract sweetness and a pronounced spicy note on the final. We are excited to see what elegant heights this great Tuscan Merlot will reach in the coming years. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich ruby red colour. Ripe wild berries and plums on the nose, slightly spicy aftertaste, complex nose. Salty on the palate with fine-grained tannins, sweet and fruity, well-balanced, with a long final." Falstaff

"Spicy and peppery on the nose with new leather and graphite, this wine also offers wildflowers and berries. On the palate, it mirrors the nose but shows more depth, with coffee, earthiness and richer fruit. Firm but flexible tannins and healthy acidity provide the contours for a long finish." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2020 Cont'Ugo, 100% Merlot, is rich, pliant and super-expressive. A blast of dark fruit, chocolate, new leather and licorice are front and center. There's a bit less of the bombastic intensity of the early years, but that's not a bad thing at all. Quite the contrary." Vinous

Palafreno 2019 is wonderfully polished and lively. Firm but well-integrated tannins form the backbone for a Merlot that is endowed with considerable energy. Spicy herbs, tobacco and wild flowers add complexity. Very nuanced on the palate, opulent to expressive, then at second glance supple, downright elegant. Almost unbeatable in complexity, depth and richness of finesse, it will reveal more and more of its first-class repertoire in the coming years. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark ruby red with purple and opaque core. Very spicy on the nose, with dark berry fruit, cherries, blackberries, a hint of sealing wax, cassis and a fine fleshy component. On the palate hearty, compact and balanced, spans the palate with great dark berry fruit, shows noble resinous notes in addition, very exciting and juicy, great length, put away." Falstaff

"This is very polished and structured with a finesse to the tannins which spread across the palate. It’s full-bodied with fine fruit and a driven finish. It needs three or four years to soften and open." James Suckling

"The 2019 Palafreno, 100% Merlot from Greve's Ruffoli district, is stunning, not to mention one of the greatest wines I have ever tasted here. Silky, plush and exceptionally vivid in the glass, the Palafreno possesses breathtaking beauty that captivates all the senses. At this early stage, the 2019 is all primary dark fruit, but the layers will start to open with cellaring. Readers who can find it should not hesitate. It's a real head turner." Vinous

Intense, seductive aroma of sweet spices, tobacco, dark cherries and wild berries. The flavour is perfectly matched by enormous elegance, rich fruit, complexity, structure and length. A wonderful, taut and highly polished Merlot. SUPERIORE.DE

"Ruby red at the core with garnet-red edges. Ripe blackberry and blackcurrant on the nose, then slightly vanilla-like and leathery from the wood ageing. Full-bodied on the palate with supple tannins, very elegant and with a long, spicy final." Falstaff

"The 2020 Merlot Montiano is youthfully dark and brooding, shimmering from the glass with an exotic blend of crushed black raspberries, blueberries, blood oranges and incense. This wine is elegant and refined. Brilliant acidity enlivens a core of vibrant ripe red and blue fruits. A chalky hint of violet pastille envelops the palate. It is incredibly long and colours the final, with sweet tannins perfectly framing the experience without slowing its momentum. This sun-drenched vintage of Montiano Merlot aims to please without ever losing its balance." Vinous

"The marvellously inimitable volcanic temperament of Montefiascone for an exceptional red wine, a Merlot of density, fruit and tension. Currant and raspberry on the nose, a hint of nutmeg, salty tannins in the mouth, juicy and dense, with a return of small red fruits and a long finish." Luca Gardini

This is the first vintage of the new pure Merlot of the house. The name Tresette is derived from the fact that there will be just 2,800 bottles of this wine, which will be aged in three 700l French oak barrels. The grapes come from old vines from a 480m high plot of land, and it is only vinified in the best years. Tresette is a cool, archetypal Merlot of the very elegant type and is completely in keeping with the style of the house. Juicy blackberry, in the nose clove, herbs and spice notes. Wrapped in smooth tannins, this fresh red leads to a delicious finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"From a vineyard of only 0.7 hectares at 480 metres above sea level, matures for 20 months in 7 hectolitre barrels: Seductive blackberry aroma, underlaid with notes of liquorice; juicy in the mouth, the tannins and acidity in harmony, elegant and polished final. Convincing." Vinum

" Firm, quite deep, slightly iodine scent of black currant and red berries with herbal aromas, some nuts, blood, black olives and moderate wood spice as well as mineral notes. Firm, ripe, tart, yet extremely juicy fruit, tight, quite fine tannin and a certain acid bite, persistent on the palate, herbal and planty notes, a hint of pepper, clear, salty and chalky minerality, has power, but also freshness and cooling elements, noble spice, very lively, multi-layered and deep, very good, tight, juicy and finely spicy finish. Great." Wein-Plus

"Named after the Italian card game, the 2016 TreSette (777) is a pure expression of Merlot from old vines. Only 2,800 bottles were made. Riecine's La Gioia once had Merlot in the blend, but it was removed to make this wine instead. This wine offers a generous bouquet with blackcurrant and cherry. However, the high altitudes of the vineyards shape crisp and acidic fruit that is very evident in this slightly cooler vintage." Wine Advocate

"This is a pretty wild and amazing on the nose with crystal-clear aromas of lavender, before the bay leaves, Thai basil, cloves and a touch of vanilla come into play. Medium to full body, incredibly edgy acidity and layer after layer of pure blue fruits. An outstanding wine with few parallels in Italy. One of a kind." James Suckling

Deep dark, impenetrable ruby colour with violet reflections. Opulent, warm bouquet of fully ripe cherries, plums, liquorice, young leather with a hint of French oak spice. Powerful and firm on the palate, with a brilliant structure and taut tannins. With increasing aeration, it reveals its good structure and refined elegance. This outstanding Merlot from central Tuscany never seems broad or too heavy until the long finish, but is completely convincing with its terrificenergy and complexity. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, elegant ruby red colour. Fine use of wood on the nose, hints of marzipan, undergrowth, milk chocolate, dark berry fruit on the finish. Well-integrated acidity and clear, spicy fruit on the palate, currently coated in a somewhat bulky woody layer, full-bodied, but still needs to age longer." Falstaff

The name Tresette is derived from the fact that only 2,800 bottles of this single-varietal Merlot are produced each year and it is aged in three Liters French oak barrels. The grapes come from old vines on a plot 480 metres above sea level, and it is only vinified in the best years. Tresette is a cool, archetypal Merlot that is very elegant and unique in Tuscany and is entirely in keeping with the house style. Juicy blackberry flavours, clove, herbs and spices on the nose. Enveloped by supple tannins, this fresh red leads into a delicious finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Intense ruby red colour. Notes of cherry, raspberry and sour cherry, with a hint of herbs and Mediterranean scrub. Deep and soft on the palate, with excellently integrated tannins and a spicy, fresh finish." Falstaff

"Violets, raspberries and passion fruit on the nose of this Tuscan Merlot join with savory notes of graphite, wet stone near a running stream, and black olives. Juicy fruit bursts through on the palate, offering cherry, strawberry and raspberry. Firm if forgiving tannins strike a tension between powerful and graceful." Wine Enthusiast

"The Riecine 2018 Merlot TreSette comes from a site with schistose galestro clay soils. This wine is dark and velvety in texture with dark fruit, spice and savory tones of dark cherry and plum. What stands out most in this Tuscan Merlot is the robust nature of the mouthfeel. This creative wine is made with early-ripening fruit from one of the wildest corners of the region." Wine Advocate

"Attractive red with plum, herb and orange-peel character. Medium body, refined tannins and a fresh, vivid finish. Really delicious now." James Suckling

Fleshy and overripe on the still youthful nose, only gradually revealing spicy flavours, dried rose petals, bright red stone fruit and menthol. Concentrated and supple on the palate with dense tannins and sweet fruit. A benchmark Merlot with a great future. SUPERIORE.DE

Crème de cassis, graphite, smoke, new leather, spices and blackberry jam are some of the many notes that the Merlot Buri develops. Rich, multi-layered and creamy on the palate, it radiates remarkable depth. Nevertheless, it is less tannic and over-concentrated than in the past. Dark and of impressive finesse as it progresses. SUPERIORE.DE

Andrea Franchetti began positioning Palazzi as an equal red alongside his flagship Tenuta di Trinoro in the 1990s, with the aim of producing two exceptional wines that evoke the left and right banks of Bordeaux.

Just three words: power, intensity and concentration. With a very manageable production of 1,660 bottles, here comes a full-throttle Tuscan wine that exudes generous black fruit, spice and sweet tobacco all the time. There is also black cherry and plum, which give the wine soft contours and sweetness. On the palate, it is firm, well-structured and delights with a mouth-filling richness that is second to none. Take a good piece of red meat, marinate it in rosemary and olive oil before heading to the charcoal grill and then embark on this monumental adventure. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich ruby with a black core. Intense and inviting nose with notes of cocoa, blackberry, plum and fine spices. Dense and concentrated on the palate, very lush, grippy, savoury tannins, rich tobacco on the long final." Falstaff

"This vibrant red is pure and well-defined, with cherry, raspberry and floral aromas and flavors detailed by iron and wild thyme, supported from dense yet refined tannins. Excellent length." Wine Spectator

"The Tenuta di Trinoro 2019 Palazzi is a pure expression of Merlot with incoming fruit from the Palazzi vineyard that is characterized by dense clay soils. The wine's intensity is what stands out most, and that power is fueled by lovely nuances of black fruit, spice, sweet tobacco and baker's chocolate. Palazzi excels in terms of mouthfeel. The smooth richness and deep softness achieved here is only possible with this grape. Furthermore, it seems only possible in this spectacular, sun-drenched corner of undiscovered Tuscany known as Sarteano." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 Palazzi is a classic Trinoro wine, with maybe a bit less bombastic intensity than some of the earlier wines, but all of the seamless elegance that has long made these reds so compelling. All the elements are wonderfully put together in the 2019, a wine that impresses with its mix of elegance, flamboyant intensity and sheer allure. I loved it." Vinous

Andrea Franchetti began in the 1990s to position Palazzi as an equal red alongside his flagship Tenuta di Trinoro, with the aim of producing two exceptional wines reminiscent of the left and right banks of Bordeaux.

Just three words: power, intensity and concentration. With a very manageable production of 1,660 bottles, here is a full-throttle Tuscan wine that constantly exudes generous black fruits, spices and sweet tobacco. There is also black cherry and plum, which lend the wine soft contours and sweetness. On the palate, it is firm, well-structured and delights with a mouthfulness that is unrivalled. Take a good piece of red meat, marinate it in rosemary and olive oil before putting it on the charcoal grill and then embark on this monumental adventure. SUPERIORE.DE

"Splendid Merlot from loamy soils, tinged with blackberries and cassis, flanked by fine spice, tobacco and dark chocolate flavours; slightly less dense than last year, but still with a lot of finesse and a perfectly balanced tannin-acid structure, subtle minerality and complexity in the lingering final. Very successful!" Vinum

"The Palazzi 2020 is packed with dark fruits, cloves, leather and dark chocolate. Rich, deep and quite potent, the 2020 is another extroverted wine in this range. The tannins are a little curmudgeonly, but otherwise the 2020 is beautifully made and shows promise, especially as the tannins soften." Vinous

"The aromas of raspberries, plums and violets are very enticing. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a creamy and refined texture that is long and beautiful. A blend of Merlot parcels. Juicy and delicious." James Suckling

"Shows pure black cherry and blackberry fruit, along with olives, wild herbs and mineral accents. It offers a rich structure, but the overall impression is one of velvety texture and great harmony. Lively finish that leaves a salty impression. It is already accessible now, but will improve with time." Wine Spectator

"A primarily sanguine and umami nose draws balance from sweet, slightly astringent notes of plum, blueberry and boysenberry. The berries flourish on the palate, but acid brings out a latent mix of pepper and spices to preserve balance, while silky, opaque tannins provide framing." Wine Enthusiast

"The Palazzi 2020 is a 100% Merlot made to the highest standards by a winemaker, the late Andrea Franchetti, who strived for perfection. From his beloved Tenuta di Trinoro in Sarteano, with its endless skies and rolling landscapes, this wine shows plump fruit, blackberries, plums, spice and campfire ash. Coming from a hot vintage, the fruit is beautifully ripe, but by no means exaggerated. The wine shows softness, tension and a supple texture. This bottle gives a lot of intensity and charm." Wine Advocate

"Rich, bright ruby colour with a fine violet sheen. Compact and very present nose, smells of ripe blackberries, blueberries, some truffle and graphite in the background, beautiful play. Fills out the palate without becoming overpowering, ripe blueberry and blackberry fruit, polished, fine-meshed tannins in many layers, coated with fine enamel, simply fun! " Falstaff

Galatrona is a pure Merlot in a class of its own. Black-red ruby in the glass. On the nose, black berries, fine wood spice and some leather. Very generous fruit aromas and extremely complex on the palate, it glides elegantly into the depths until it is caught by a finely woven tannin and passes into a long and finesse-rich finish. A wine that does not have to hide behind Masseto & Co., on the contrary, for us it has been Italy's Merlot benchmark for years. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, intense ruby with violet glints. Very clear and inviting nose, full of blueberry and blackberry, in addition fine tobacco notes, some cardamom. Juicy and endowed with lots of fresh fruit, shows polished tannin, grippy, after blackberries in the final, shows a fine spice carpet in the final." Falstaff

"A round, fruity red wine with ripe aromas of black cherries, blackberries, plums, graphite and spices. It starts soft and becomes firmer on the finish, where refined tannins come into play. It shows good balance but should be given a few more years to fully develop." Wine Spectator

"Some forest floor notes mingle with dark fruits and fresh herbs - liquorice and blackcurrant with hints of dark chocolate and thyme. Supple and mouth-filling, this wine has weight from the start, the tannins are massive, plush and fleshy, filling the mouth with rich, concentrated black fruit flavours. Detailed and precise, this wine has power and is well framed with high acidity giving the vitality to balance the concentration. A powerful wine, with real power, yet finesse." Decanter

"Dark berries, chocolate mousse, dried herbs and some chilli pepper heat show on the nose of this wine. The palate remains chocolaty but herbal, with a dark cherry and syrup finish contrasted by chalky, grainy tannins and lingering spiciness. An absolute delight in the best way." Wine Enthusiast

"The Petrolo 2020 Galatrona is a pure expression of organic Merlot and the winery's top wine. It was first created in 1994, when Luca Sanjust's second child, Lucia, was born. Despite the summer heat, which became a challenge for winemakers in many corners of Tuscany, Galatrona is showing excellent results in 2020. The vineyard is located in a cool and densely wooded area almost exactly between Florence, Arezzo and Siena. The vintage has a classic quality with a subtle bouquet that increases in intensity as the wine opens in the glass. Aromas of cherries, toasted almonds and dried mint accompany a long and very elegant finish. The oak tannins are soft and sweet, and the wine has a long-lasting flavour." Wine Advocate

"Subtle yet intense aromas of black fruits and violets. Extremely perfumed. Stomped stones. Medium-bodied with ultra-fine tannins that give a velvety mouthfeel that lasts minutes. Refined and fresh. Al-dente fruit." James Suckling

"The Galatrona 2020 is breathtaking. In fact, the 2020 is one of the best vintages of Galatrona I can remember tasting. I am particularly impressed by its vertical intensity and explosive energy. All the elements are so impeccably woven together. Dark fruits, crushed rocks, menthol, liquorice and spices lead into an intense finish that lingers on the palate. Great." Vinous

"The culmination of Luca Sanjust's revolutionary work at Petrolo, this Galatrona gets more exciting with each release: pure Merlot, nose of currants, with a finish of dogwood peel and bay leaf, crisp, salty mouthfeel, with a return of citrus and a long, mentholated finish." Luca Gardini