Petrolo Galatrona 2023 [JS 98]

James Suckling 98 points.

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.

Wine Advocate 96 points.

The Petrolo 2023 Val d'Arno di Sopra Galatrona stands among Italy’s benchmark expressions of Merlot. This organic wine comes from nine hectares of gently sloping vineyards with medium-rich soils marked by rocks and clay, lending both depth and natural balance. Gorgeously rich, velvety and intense, Galatrona delivers compelling concentration without ever sacrificing elegance or freshness. The underdog 2023 vintage presented notable challenges due to humidity and heat, but meticulous work in the vineyard and at the sorting table proved decisive, especially for an early-ripening variety like Merlot. Fermented in cement and aged in barrique and tonneaux for 18 months, the wine shows harmony between power and finesse. Production is 25,000 bottles. 96 points.

Drinking Window:  2027 - 2048

Reviewer Name:  Monica Larner

Review Date:  5th February 2026