Paolo di Marchi has run Isole e Olena since the age of 20. Paolo avoids the Cabernet Sauvignon many of his neighbors have begun to incorporate into their Chiantis, believing it overshadows the Sangiovese. The flagship wine at Isole e Olena is Cepparello, a barrique-aged Sangiovese classified as an IGT – because at the time of its creation in the 1980s, a wine comprising 100% Sangiovese could not legally be labelled as Chianti.
Light crimson in color with some bricking at the edge of the glass. 13.5% ABV. Fantastic nose of red fruits, menthol, wet asphalt and leather. Medium body with medium acidity. Well balanced with ample sweet fruits. Dried cherries, anise, tobacco and iron on the palate. Medium length on the finish. Awesome Cepparello that is absolutely delightful at twenty years of age. Best over the next several years.
My rating: 94 points.
Cepparello is a world class wines that shows well upon release or can cellar for upwards of 20 years. Current vintages are readily available for about $75. Look for the 2016.