Il Palagio Sacred Love (Italy)

Prepare to be stung! This is a very special wine from Il Palagio, a 350 hectare Tuscan estate owned by musician Sting and his wife Trudie Styler. Named after the song by Sting/The Police, this Tuscan superstar is a 100% indulgent Merlot.

Inspired by a love for nature and a passion for music, Sacred Love emerges as a red wine that seduces from the first sip. This Merlot stands out for its elegance and complexity, reflecting the uniqueness of the Tuscan terroir.

The vinification process of Sacred Love follows traditional methods, yet with a keen eye on modernity and sustainability. The Merlot grapes, meticulously selected, are hand-harvested at perfect ripeness to ensure optimal expression of the vine and the territory. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures, followed by maturation in French oak barrels for a period ranging from 12 to 15 months before bottling.

Sacred Love pours a deep ruby red with violet reflections. On the nose, it opens up beautifully after breathing for an hour or so, with intense aromas of ripe plums and blackberries, enriched by hints of darl chocolate, vanilla, and a light spicy touch of black pepper. On the palate, the wine is velvety and full-bodied, with well-integrated tannins and an aromatic persistence that invites another sip. The balance between acidity and alcohol is harmonious, with a structure that promises excellent aging potential.

Il Palagio estate has been farmed on since the 16th Century! When Sting and Trudie first came across the estate in 1999, it had fallen into a state of disrepair. They restored the estate, and assembled a team to maximise the natural qualities of the estate, now operating on a fully biodynamic basis. Grape varieties cultivated here include the classic Tuscan red grapes Sangiovese, Canaiolo & Colorino as well as the more internationally renowned Cabernet Sauvignon & Merlot.

Pair this outstanding wine with robust dishes like roasted red meats, game, and aged cheeses.