The Petrolo 2020 Galatrona is a pure expression of organic Merlot and the estate's headline wine. It was first created in 1994 when Luca Sanjust's second child, Lucia, was born. Despite the summer heat that became a challenge for winemakers in many corners of Tuscany, Galatrona shows terrific results in 2020. The vineyard is located in a cool and thickly forested position almost exactly between Florence, Arezzo and Siena. The vintage has a classic quality with a subtle bouquet that grows in intensity as the wine opens in the glass. Aromas of cherry, toasted almond and dried mint fuel a long and very elegant finish. The oak tannins are soft and sweet, and the wine boasts long-lasting flavors.

Savoury and mouthwatering, benefitting from its 300m of altitude in the southern part of Tuscany by the Chianti hills. Precise and finely boned tannins, emphasis on dried herbs on the nose, this is an enticing mix of savoury raspberry leaf and riper red cherry fruits, keeps things walking the line of grip and generosity. Luca Sanjust winemaker and owner, along with team including Carlo Ferrini. One of the first big 100% Italian Merlot wines after Masseto to be sold through the Bordeaux system, now its fifth vintage with négociants, and a wine that gives hope to those who worry that Merlot is becoming unviable in the heat of Italian summers.

The 10ha Galatrona vineyard is home to Merlot in clay-rich loam, marl and sandstone soils on the border with the Chianti hills. First produced in 1994, Galatrona has been certified organic since the 2016 vintage. Vinified in lined cement tanks with indigenous yeasts, the wine then spends around 18 months in French oak barriques and tonneaux, one-third new, with regular batonnage. Violet and cocoa aromas introduce a very fresh, vibrant wine that's light on its feet and finely balanced, offering little at this early stage other than some subtle black and blue fruits, fragrant potpourri and incisive acidity. One for the cellar.

Harvested 7–12 September. 100% Merlot. Chocolatey dark fruit with a hint of balsamic vinegar on the nose. Pulpy fruit and a hint of sweet cherry cola from wood spice bring ample sweetness. Seductive and ripe, there is a leaning towards confection. Plush and round, this is heady and full. (TP)