Nestled in the idyllic Val d’Arno in northern Tuscany, lies the renowned producer Fattoria Petrolo. Since the 1980s, Petrolo has been crafting exceptional wines from a variety of grapes, including Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malvasia, and Trebbiano Toscano. However, it is their Merlot that has truly captured the hearts of wine enthusiasts worldwide.
The history of wine production in this region dates back to the early 18th century, with French grape varieties being introduced alongside the native Sangiovese in the 19th century. In the 1940s, the Petrolo estate was acquired by the Bazocchi family and is now under the ownership of Luca Sanjust, a former painter.
Petrolo’s vineyards span 31 hectares, with 26 hectares dedicated to wine production. The altitude here ranges from 250 to 450 meters above sea level, providing optimal growing conditions for the vines. The soil is moderately loose-packed, with a unique composition of rocky stratifications of limestone, sand, claystone, and shale, which are characteristic of the Chianti area.
One of Petrolo’s most prized vineyards is the Galatrona, covering just 3 hectares and planted in 1990. This was the first Merlot vineyard planted by Petrolo and is named after the medieval tower that stands proudly on the estate. In 1994, the Galatrona wine was born, with a late-picked parcel of Merlot kept separate and bottled as a single varietal. The result was a spectacular wine that has consistently received high praise from critics and wine lovers alike.
At Petrolo, the passion for winemaking runs deep, and their commitment to producing top-quality wines is evident in every bottle. With a rich history, premium vineyards, and a talented team at the helm, Fattoria Petrolo is a true gem of the Italian wine scene. Indulge in their Merlot and experience the essence of this historic and beautiful region for yourself.
