2015 - Cepparello, Isole e Olena, Toscana

The 2015 Cepparello is not immediately accessible. Indeed, the wine took some time to open, and I kept going back to my sample bottle throughout the afternoon at different intervals to check on its progress. There is no doubting the enormous potential of its aging trajectory nor the considerable depth of fruit in its current youthful state. However, all those aromatic elements of fruit, spice, tar, tobacco and grilled herb still need to find harmony before they sing in chorus. The mouthfeel is chiseled and tight, and this is where you really sense the potential of its longevity. Some 42,000 bottles were made. This wine is aged in mostly French oak, with 5% American oak.

The 2015 Cepparello is pliant and racy, with lovely floral top notes to match its gracious personality. There is good depth to the dark red/purplish fruit, while silky tannins give the wine plenty of immediacy. Time in the glass brings out attractive rose petal and lavender notes to round things out. The 2015 is not as complex or layered as the best editions. In exchange, it should drink well right out of the gate. Rain during harvest resulted in Cepparello that is attractive, but also a bit lacking in dimension.