Petrolo Bòggina C 2020

Region and Vineyards

The Valdarno di Sopra region, located near the Chianti area in Tuscany, has a rich winemaking heritage dating back to the Renaissance and the Medici family. This area is renowned for its potential to produce high-quality wines due to its unique microclimate and diverse soil composition. The vineyards benefit from loam soil with rocky stratifications of schist, marl, and sandstone, which contribute to the distinct minerality and complexity of the wines produced here.

The Bòggina vineyard, a Sangiovese cru, was originally planted in 1952 by Petrolo’s founder, Gastone Bazzocchi, who recognized the vineyard's great quality potential early on. Over the years, the vineyard has been carefully replanted with a massale selection to preserve the diversity of the original clones. Petrolo’s vineyards have been EU Organic Certified since 2016 and have practiced natural and sustainable farming since 2004. The commitment to dry farming, no tillage, total grassing with mulch management, and the avoidance of synthetic pesticides or fertilizers ensures the health and vitality of the vines, resulting in grapes of exceptional quality.

Winemaking

The Petrolo Bòggina C is crafted from 100% Sangiovese. The vinification process begins with natural fermentation using native yeasts in concrete vats, accompanied by soft and frequent pumping over. Whenever possible, the wine undergoes long macerations to extract deep color and complex flavors.

Aging includes 16-18 months of malolactic fermentation in French oak barrels (22 hl) and tonneaux (7 hl). This meticulous process enhances the wine’s texture and depth, resulting in a wine that is both structured and expressive. The final product showcases a balanced alcohol content of 14%.

Did you know?

The Bòggina vineyard is a testament to the winemaking foresight of Petrolo’s founder, Gastone Bazzocchi. His early recognition of the vineyard's potential and commitment to preserving its unique clones has allowed Petrolo to produce a Sangiovese that truly reflects the character and heritage of the Valdarno di Sopra region.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep ruby red.
• Aroma: A graceful nose that dances between earthy and spicy notes, from soil and underbrush to black pepper and cloves.
• Palate: Juicy with cherries and rich with dark chocolate, supported by sturdy tannins. The palate is dynamic and acrobatic, offering a blend of power and delicacy.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Wild Boar Ragù with Pappardelle: The robust flavors of wild boar, cooked in a rich tomato sauce, pair perfectly with the wine’s earthy and spicy character. The broad pappardelle noodles provide a satisfying texture that complements the wine’s sturdy tannins.
• Beef Tagliata with Arugula and Parmesan: The savory and slightly peppery arugula, along with the rich beef and sharp Parmesan, enhance the wine's spicy notes and complex flavors.
• Truffle Pizza: The earthy truffle complements the wine’s earthy aromas, while the rich cheese and thin, crispy crust balance the wine's tannins and acidity.
• Grilled Sausages with Fennel: The savory, aromatic fennel flavors in the sausages highlight the wine’s spicy and earthy profile, making for a harmonious pairing.

History of Petrolo Estate

Petrolo's history is intertwined with the rich viticultural heritage of Tuscany. The estate is situated in Valdarno di Sopra, a region with a winemaking history dating back to the Renaissance, recognized by Cosimo III de’ Medici in 1716 for its valuable land for wine production. The Petrolo estate has seen significant developments since it was acquired by the Bazzocchi family in the 1940s.

Under the stewardship of Luca Sanjust, a former artist turned winemaker, Petrolo has flourished. Luca took over the estate in the 1980s, bringing a new vision and dedication to producing wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region.

Region and Vineyards

Petrolo's vineyards are located in Valdarno di Sopra, a DOC appellation in Tuscany bordered by the Chianti Classico region. The estate covers about 31 hectares of vineyards, which are planted primarily with Sangiovese, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The vineyards benefit from a mix of loam soils and rocky stratifications of schist, marl, and sandstone, which contribute to the complexity and depth of the wines.

The region enjoys a Mediterranean climate with elevations ranging from 250 to 500 meters, providing ideal conditions for grape growing. The estate practices organic farming and sustainable viticulture, including dry farming and no tillage. These practices, along with meticulous care in the vineyard and cellar, ensure that the wines express the true character of the terroir while maintaining high environmental standards.

Wine Range

Petrolo produces a diverse range of wines that showcase the best of Tuscany:

• Galatrona: A highly acclaimed Merlot, considered one of Tuscany’s finest.
• Bòggina A: A Sangiovese made in amphorae, reflecting historical Etruscan winemaking techniques.
• Bòggina B: A Trebbiano Toscano inspired by the great white wines of the past.
• Torrione: Primarily made from Sangiovese, this wine is noted for its depth and regional character.

Each wine is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, emphasizing minimal intervention and sustainable practices to preserve the natural expression of the vineyard.

Did You Know?

The name Petrolo is steeped in history, with the estate featuring an old tower built on Roman foundations. The choice to use amphorae for aging some of their wines connects them to Tuscany's ancient Etruscan roots, highlighting their dedication to tradition while embracing modern organic practices.