Querciabella Palafreno

Toscana IGT, Italy

Vintage:2013 (Past)

2017 (Past) | 2019 (Current)

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Querciabella Palafreno 2013
  • JS 96
  • V 94
  • WS 93

Reviews

Wine Spectator 93 Points October 3, 2018, Bruce Sanderson

“This is stylish, with a solid structure and plum and cherry flavors polished by toasty oak. Elements of baking spices, leather and underbrush complement the fruit as this glides to a long finish. Merlot. Drink now through 2028.”

Vinous Media 94 Points January 1, 2018, Antonio Galloni

“The terrific 2013 Palafreno, 100% Merlot, is pliant, supple and super-expressive. Plum, black cherry, menthol, licorice, spice and dried flowers add aromatic nuance. Silky tannins wrap around the creamy, inviting finish. This fruit was picked during the last week of September, which is very much on the late side for the Merlot at Querciabella.”

JamesSuckling.com #41 on Top 100 Italian Wines December 4, 2017, James Suckling

JamesSuckling.com 96 Points August 28, 2017, James Suckling

“Beautifully ripe mulberries take center stage as well as freshly picked brambleberries, plums and so much orange rind. Bursting with blue fruit and acidity, the palate is full and well structured, culminating in a long, juicy finish. Merlot magic. Easily the best ever. Drink now and delight in this. Made from organic grapes.”

Overview

Founded in 1974, Querciabella enjoys the acclaim of the world’s most discriminating critics and consumers for wines such as Camartina, Batàr, Palafreno and Querciabella Chianti Classico. In its uncompromising pursuit of quality, sustainability and authenticity, Querciabella has continually honed its approach to biodynamic viticulture for over a decade. With vineyards located throughout Tuscany’s Chianti Classico and Maremma areas, Querciabella exemplifies the mindful preservation of tradition through forward-thinking, albeit completely natural, winemaking. 

Winemaking

Palafreno comes from the Cipresso and Marrone vineyards which have been cultivated organically since 1988, and in 2000 underwent a full conversion to biodynamic practices.

Élevage lasts 18 months in 25% new, fine and extra-fine grained French oak barriques.

Tasting Notes

The growing season included a cool spring with abun­dant rainfall, followed by moderate summer heat and warm autumn temperatures, allowing grapes to ripen gradually through the end of October. This extended, more 'traditional' hang time, compared to recent vin­tages, produced harmonious and balanced wines.

Food Pairing

Enjoyable now and will continue to evolve for over 15 years. Best served between 64°- 68°F.

Technical Information

Varietals: 100% Merlot

Wine Alcohol: 13.5%

Titratable Acidity: 6.11 g/L

pH: 3.47

Harvest Start Date: September 18, 2013

Soil Composition: Loose schistous skeletal soil with minimal clay

Suggested Retail Price: $189.00