Palafreno

Palafreno is a monumental Merlot
with an ethereal lightness of touch.
Exclusively released in years
when ripening conditions are
near perfection.

Grape Varieties

  • Merlot
Another stellar wine from Querciabella.
Antonio Galloni Vinous 2020
Merlot magic. Easily the best ever.
James Suckling jamessuckling.com 2017
Merlot of absolute enological greatness.
Antonello Biancalana DiWine Taste 2016
A Merlot built on exquisite finesse. 94+/100
Antonio Galloni Vinous 2015
Ecstatic enlightenment.
Luigi Veronelli veronelli.com 2003

In certain years the elements necessary for winemaking – sunlight, rainfall, temperature ranges – all come into perfect alignment. In those years, we make Palafreno. 

Silky texture, beguiling aromas and a savoury, sustained finish that develops in pure pleasure make it a true connoisseur’s wine that lives up to its namesake: Palafreno refers to a medieval parade horse and, in our intention, showcases the world-class value of our vineyards in Ruffoli. 

So exceptional that it has been released only a dozen times since it first made headlines. The sensational vintages of 2000 and 2001 included Sangiovese in the blend. However, it was in 2004 that Palafreno really found its stride as a small batch, 100% Merlot aged in fine-grained barrique. Our latest release, the exceptional 2020, is the perfect wine to pull out when you want to experience the height of what this grape can achieve.

Although it takes efforts to grow Merlot to perfection, by balancing the richness of the varietal with the terroir-borne acidity, we craft a sublime wine fitting for the finest collections. In the glass, Palafreno offers plenty of hedonistic delight and, on the table, is a phenomenal companion to dishes of rare complexity and unusual combinations of flavours. 

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