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Querciabella, Toscana Palafreno, 2020

Red Wine from Tuscany, Italy
by Querciabella
$204.99
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Palafreno is released only in years of near-perfect ripeness—a rarity in Querciabella's biodynamic portfolio. This 100% Merlot from Ruffoli in Greve showcases the winery's philosophy: clay-rich soil retains moisture, keeping the fruit fresh and balanced while allowing full phenolic maturity. It's an ethereal Merlot with noble structure and restraint rather than power.

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Antonio Galloni

96 points

"The 2020 Palafreno (100% Merlot) is packed with dark fruit, mocha, new leather, spice and espresso. It emerges from vineyards at elevation in the Ruffoli district. Merlot seems to be more transparent with regards to an expression of place, whereas, interestingly, Cabernet is much stronger in varietal expression in the Camartina blend. The deep, saline finish is seriously impressive. The 2020 is superb, especially for a wine that was bottled just a few weeks before this tasting. Aging was done in 225-liter barrels, about 20% new." —Antonio Galloni

Wine Spectator

94 points

"Bursting with juicy black cherry, black currant and blueberry flavors, this red's fruit is matched by dense, refined tannins and lively acidity. Gains depth from underlying elements of Mediterranean herbs and mineral. Long finish. Merlot. Best from 2026 through 2042."

More about Querciabella

Tuscan estate in Chianti Classico, organic since 1988 and biodynamic since 2000. One of Italy's largest certified organic vineyard owners, Querciabella makes serious wine without shouting about it. Their reds have structure and dignity—the kind of Tuscany that ages and deepens.

Wine Details

  • Grape Variety

    Merlot

  • Vintage

    2020

  • Size

    750ml

  • Sweetness

    Dry

  • Body

    Full Bodied

Flatiron's Take

From the Importer

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Tasting Notes & Food Pairings

Perfect Pairings

Grilled ribeye, wild mushroom ragù, truffle-infused dishes, aged Pecorino

Tasting Profile

Plum, cherry, earth, spice, leather. Medium-full body, refined tannins, silky palate, mineral finish.

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