The Tuscan coast has become a hotbed of luxury wines in the past decade. This is the motherland of the so-called Super Tuscans that have captured the American imagination. Petra is one of the rising stars of this unabashedly modern wine region.
Like most Super Tuscans, this bottling is built on a foundation of Cabernet Sauvignon, with additions of Sangiovese and Merlot. It receives one year of aging in old French oak barrels.
Dark crimson red, the wine offers up aromas of toasted beechwood, herbes de Provence, and fresh flowers. The flavors open into chocolate and juicy black fruit with a touch of the smokey game on the palate. The tannins soften into the finish, which offers pretty floral and anise notes. This is an exceptional Super Tuscan for this price range. Highly recommended.
This 2008 is just coming into its own in 2013. It is expected to drink well for another decade. For pairings, a dry-rubbed t-bone steak would be an excellent option. For the more adventurous, I would suggest the classic Trippa Alla Romana.