Petrolo’s Galatrona 2013 is a single-vineyard, 100% Merlot from Tuscany, bottled as Val d’Arno di Sopra DOC (Vigna Galatrona). The Galatrona vineyard covers about 10 hectares at roughly 300 meters above sea level with a south-eastern exposure and clay-rich soils that include schist, marl, and sandstone. Petrolo ferments with native yeasts in cement, then ages the wine in French barriques (about one-third new) for 18–20 months, with bâtonnage early in the élevage.
Critical response to the 2013 is notably strong, with two excellent reviews leading the conversation. James Suckling awarded 98 points, highlighting aromatic lift and structure: “violets and blackberries… subtle and complete,” with “ultra-fine and firm tannins” and a “fruit and mineral undertone.” He calls it “tight and substantial… so layered,” and frames it as “another example of finesse and beauty… with this pure merlot,” suggesting it would be “Better in 2018.”
Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate (Monica Larner) goes even further in its enthusiasm with 97+ points and a clear statement on demand: “The 2013 Galatrona pretty much sold out in pre sales before it’s official release.” Larner describes “outstanding” quality and says the Merlot shows “sharpness and focus in a slightly cooler vintage.” Her note emphasizes richness without losing definition, citing a “plush and rich bouquet” of “soft cherry and blackberry” backed by “spice, sweet tobacco, chocolate and crushed granite,” concluding that it delivers “an incredible sense of overall balance and irresistible drinking pleasure.”
Wine Spectator is positive but more measured at 92 points, describing “a lush, fruity style” with “cherry, raspberry, vanilla, toast and leather flavors.” It also notes the wine “Needs to absorb the oak and find equilibrium,” with a mineral note emerging on the “long finish.” Their drinking window runs 2018 to 2025, and they report 250 cases imported.
