The Isole e Olena Estate, run by Paolo de Marchi, is a Super Tuscan property that has seen a dramatic rise in quality over the last few decades.
The estate was purchased in the 1960s by the de Marchi family. Paolo's detail in both the vineyard and the winery has been the driving force that has driven this estate to the very pinnacle of Super Tuscan producers.
Their Chianti Classico has long led the charge for low production, high quality wines. Traditionally a blend of Sangiovese, Canaiolo & a few percent of Syrah the Chianti is superb. Full of supple brambly fruit makes it delicious to drink young, but also with enough tannin & acidity to be committed to the cellar.
Cepparello is the top cuvee from the estate; it is 100% Sangiovese, aged for two years in small barriques. It is classed as IGT - at the time of classification, wines from Chianti could not be made exclusively from Sangiovese.
Their 2017 vintage is one of quality over quantity - the fruit was excellent, with great concentration of flavour and fine tannins.
Cepparello 2017
£360 per 6 in bond
Pre-arrival November
A beautifully linear and refined sangiovese with polished tannins and super tight fruit. Yet, it shows subtle complexity of blackberries, black cherries and dark chocolate. Some hazelnuts. Intense, vibrant finish with a creamy texture. Extremely well done for this hot, dry vintage.
95 points James Suckling
Chianti Classico 2017
£188 per 12 in bond
Pre-arrival November
A very pretty 2017 Chianti Classico with a beautiful core of ripe fruit and layers of round, lightly chewy tannins. Dark cherries, walnuts and chocolate. Drink or hold.
93 points James Suckling