2009 Petrolo, Galatrona, IGT

Vinous 94

Ink-tinged ruby. Spice-accented aromas complement cassis, olive tapenade and violet pastille on the evolved, open-knit nose. Full and broad on the palate, offering suave dark berry liqueur flavors and an aromatic, minty cocoa nuance that builds with aeration. Finishes with lively acidity extending the flavors at the back, which features a very strong note of cloves and smoke. This forward, ripe, softer-styled Galatrona was delicious to drink from day one but hasn’t lost any of its verve. [Ian D’Agata, 09/01/2016]

Anticipated maturity: 2016-2026

Robert Parker 98

The super rich and velvety 2009 Galatrona was the headline performer in this vertical tasting going back to the 1997 vintage. This is a beautiful bottle that projects a deep sense of confidence and enormous beauty, inside and out. It offers an irresistible contrast between its sweet side and its savory side with dried cherry, blackberry preserves, scorched earth, smoked bacon and dark spice. The wine’s appearance is inky black and thickly concentrated. Despite that richness, its nuanced complexity is put on clear display. This is a beautiful wine from a tremendous vintage. [Monica Larner, 28/09/2017]

Anticipated maturity: 2017-2030