Petrolo Torrione Valdarno di Sopra 2020

Region and Vineyards

The Valdarno di Sopra region, located near the Chianti area in Tuscany, boasts a rich winemaking heritage that dates back to the Renaissance era and the Medici family. This region is celebrated for its unique microclimate and diverse soil composition, making it ideal for producing high-quality wines. 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.

Petrolo’s vineyards, particularly for Torrione, are meticulously maintained with EU Organic Certification since 2016 and have practiced natural and sustainable farming since 2004. The commitment to dry farming, no tillage, total grassing with mulch management, and avoiding synthetic pesticides or fertilizers ensures the health and vitality of the vines, resulting in grapes of exceptional quality.

Winemaking

The Petrolo Torrione is crafted from a blend of 80% Sangiovese, 15% Merlot, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. The vinification process begins with a manual harvest, followed by grape selection and sorting. The natural vinification with native yeasts occurs in concrete vats, with soft and frequent manual pumping over. The wine undergoes skin maceration for 18 days, extracting deep color and complex flavors.

Aging involves 15 months of maturation, partly in 40hl French barriques and partly in concrete vats, with spontaneous malolactic fermentation occurring in oak barrels. This meticulous process enhances the wine’s texture and depth, resulting in a wine that is both structured and ethereal.

Did you know?

Torrione marks the beginning of Petrolo’s quality revolution and is considered the true identity of the estate. The inclusion of Bordeaux varieties such as Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, along with Sangiovese, lends these French varieties a distinctly Tuscan character, instilling a sense of place that is uniquely Petrolo.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep ruby red.
• Aroma: Inviting aromas of dark and blue fruits, with subtle notes of chocolate and spices, and hints of blue flowers and crushed stones.
• Palate: Medium- to full-bodied, complex and structured, yet ethereal and weightless. The flavors reflect a harmonious balance of fruit and earthiness, with fine tannins and a long, elegant finish.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Braised Rabbit with Polenta: The tender rabbit meat, cooked in a savory broth, pairs beautifully with the wine’s complex structure and earthy notes. The creamy polenta complements the wine’s smooth texture.
• Porcini Mushroom Risotto: The rich, umami flavors of porcini mushrooms enhance the wine’s depth and minerality, while the creamy risotto matches its elegant mouthfeel.
• Grilled Lamb with Rosemary and Garlic: The herbal and savory flavors of grilled lamb bring out the wine’s nuanced aromas of spices and crushed stones, making for a harmonious pairing.
• Panzanella Salad with Heirloom Tomatoes: This Tuscan bread salad, with its bright, fresh flavors, complements the wine’s fruity notes and provides a refreshing contrast to its structured body.

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.