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 savory, 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. 

Querciabella, a historic Tuscan company purchased in 1974 by Giuseppe Castiglioni, who at the time owned only one hectare but with the dream of producing not only Sangiovese but also the great international vines of Burgundy and Bordeaux. The company was then passed on to his son who in the first half of the 80s converted the production into organic viticulture. In 2000 Querciabella was declared as a biodynamic company and soon received great appreciation for its elegant and exciting wines.

Tasting Notes

The 2000 Palafreno, 100% Merlot, from vineyards in Greve, is a wild, exotic wine that marries the natural richness of the year with the structure of this site. It is a deep wine that gives off hints of undergrowth and cassis liqueur with notes of plum and porcini mushroom. Round and with a long and persistent finish.

Food Pairing

Palafreno offers plenty of hedonistic delight on the table with its velvety texture, and a savory, sustained finish. It generally pairs well with Italian cuisine, as it can take the acidity of tomato-based dishes and a bit of hot spiciness. With older vintages, choose richer foods with earthy flavors like root vegetables, mushrooms, lentils, and beans, to allow Palafreno to shine and reveal the depth of its varietal expression.

· Lentil pot roast with porcini mushrooms and spiced cranberry sauce
· Mushroom and potato Wellington with thyme and rosemary
· Parsnip, chestnut, and cranberry loaf with a sage butter drizzle
· Vegan Eggplant Parmigiana
· Butternut squash lasagne with a creamy garlic-tahini sauce
· Creamy Cumin-Spiced Pumpkin Mac n’ Cheese

Merlot

Italy, Tuscany

13.50%