2001 Petrolo, Galatrona, IGT

Good full, bright ruby. Fresh aromas of raspberry, minerals, mocha, noble herbs and crushed violet. Bright, mineral and hugely concentrated, but with harmonious acidity providing focus and energy, this very refined Galatrona offers an almost magically light touch to the silky tannins. Less powerful and rich than the 2004 or the 2007, but this showcases rare balance and energy here.

A wonderfully toned merlot with aromas of crushed flowers and ripe berries that follow through to a full body, very fine tannins and a long and flavorful finish. Will continue to improve with age but why wait?

A perfectly formed bodybuilder. Gorgeous aromas of crushed flowers and ripe red fruits, have hints of minerals. Very perfumed. Full-bodied, with ultrafine tannins and a long, delicious finish. Very refined indeed. Builds and builds on the palate. Dense. Merlot. Best after 2007. 850 cases made.

The 2001 Galatrona is an unusual wine that was born in a warm vintage. There are ripe fruit nuances, yet they are never too pronounced. Instead, the wine expresses its sweet and sunny side thanks to curious aromas of candied fruit, apricot and plum cake. That fruity intensity is soft and luscious. This Tuscan Merlot offers a heavier feel in the mouth with velvety richness and some subtle granularity in terms of its texture. There is an overt level of dark fruit sweetness that stops shy of feeling cloying or syrupy.

The 2001 Galatrona confirms its status as one of Tuscany’s better Merlot bottlings with its dark ruby color, ripe, warm plum and black cherry fruit, and spicy, dense flavors, broad and long, with a swelling volume on the finish. Drink: 2005-2015.