Andrea Franchetti began making Palazzi alongside Tenuta di Trinoro, with an eye toward producing two wines reminiscent of the Left and Right Banks of Bordeaux. From 1997-1999, Palazzi – a wine made predominantly of Merlot – was a hit amongst critics, but then Franchetti decided to stop making it for ten years. 2009 was such a beautiful vintage, however, that he was inspired to begin producing the wine again due to how beautifully the Merlot had developed that season.

Palazzi showcases Merlot at its best, with plush, supple fruit balanced by intense minerality. A blend of grapes from across the estate, Palazzi comes from a selection of older vines of Merlot, comprising about five to seven hectares. Several months in new barrel add layers of richness and complexity, making the wine approachable and pleasing from release, with elegant structure that can stand the test of time. It is one of the great examples of Italian Merlot, and only a small quantity is produced each year.

Vineyard age: 20/30 years

Vineyard density: 10,000 vines per Ha

Vineyard altitude: 450 – 600m a.s.l.

Yield per hectare: 18 Hl/Ha

Fertilization: None

Spraying: clay, propoli, grapefruit seed extract

Vinification: Pickings started Setempter 28th 2012, alcoholic fermentation for 15 days

Aging: 8 months in new French oak barriques; 10 months in cement

Production: 2,000 bottles on average