Castello dei Rampolla - Sammarco Toscana 2018

This historic estate owned by the Di Napoli family since 1964 is situated in Panzano’s Conca d’Oro. Selling its first estate bottles in 1975, Castello dei Rampolla emerged as one of a hand-full of producers who played a major role in the revival of the Chianti Classico. Characterized by innovative and rigorous production strategies, biodynamic methods have been used in the vineyards since 1994. Castello dei Rampolla wines have become cult favorites for their consistency and authenticity.

"The 2018 Sammarco is brilliant. Bright and explosive, with tons of linear drive, the 2018 is exceptionally polished. Cabernet Sauvignon is up to 80% of the blend, and that very much comes through in a wine endowed with tremendous purity. Blue/purplish fruit, lavender, sage, mint and blood orange all race across the palate. I love the freshness here. Drink 2028-2058"  98 points - Antonio Galloni, Vinous

"Castello dei Rampolla's Sammarco and D'Alceo have been benchmarks for several decades. Both 2018s will take their place among the best wines ever made here. Maurizia di Napoli and her brother, Luca, craft wines of notable intensity and pedigree. Biodynamic farming and low intervention winemaking are the rule. Of the two flagship wines, D'Alceo is a bit more opulent, likely because the terraced vineyards are south and south-east facing, while Sammarco has a bit more tannic backbone and energy. Both are off the charts great." Antonio Galloni, Vinous

"Gorgeous aromas of blackberries and redcurrants with violets and rosemary follow through to a medium body with fine, tense tannins and an intense, minerally finish. Racy and polished at the end. Longlasting. Drink after 2026." - 96 points, James Suckling

"The Castello dei Rampolla 2018 Sammarco is Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sangiovese. This wine grips tightly to the palate with ample fruit weight and rich concentration. It is chiseled and tight, mostly thanks to its structure and tannins, giving this wine great promise for future aging. The Sammarco stands apart from the other wines in this portfolio that all promote a punchy, bright or natural style. This bottle brings on the brawn, ripe fruit, black olive and a much greater sense of lasting power. Production is 16,672 bottles and 150 magnums." - 95 points, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

Producer: Castello dei Rampolla

Country: Italy

Region: Tuscany

Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese, Merlot

Appellation: Toscana IGT

Vintage: 2018

Size: 750ml