2010 Palafreno
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Tasting notes
100% Merlot. Mid crimson. Classy Merlot nose with chalky notes and hint of tobacco. Almost a little austere for a Tuscan Merlot with sappy acidity and powdery tannins. Distinct and herbal rather than richly fruity. Cool-year impact makes this an elegant wine. (WS)
Critic scores
Average Score
Walter Speller, jancisrobinson.com
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2010 Palafreno is wonderfully polished and vibrant. Firm yet well-integrated tannins provide the backbone for a Merlot endowed with considerable energy. Savory herbs, tobacco and wild flowers all add complexity. The 2010 is first and foremost a wine of Greve. Varietal character is much harder to identify, as the Merlot has now become pretty much domesticated in these pristine, hillside vineyards. Still, there is an attractive, perfumed juiciness to the finish that is a giveaway. Sadly, there will be very little of the 2010 to go around, as most of the harvest was enjoyed by local boars with exceptionally fine taste.
About the producer
Literally translating as “beautiful oak”, Querciabella was created in 1974 by Giuseppe Castiglioni. A pioneer in Chianti, he started farming biodynamically and experimenting with both varieties and winemaking – one result of which was Camartina, the property’s flagship Super Tuscan.