Isole e Olena - Chianti Classico 2022

Founded in 1956 by Francesco De Marchi, this historic Chianti Classico estate is located in the western part of the denomination, near Castellina in Chianti, in the commune of Barberina Val d’Elsa. Isole e Olena’s 56 hectares (138 acres) of vineyards sit at 350-450 meters (1,148 – 1,476 feet) above sea level on soils of galestro and marly schist.

1980 saw the first bottling of Cepparello, a Sangiovese from old vines, aged in barrique, which in time has become an emblem of Isole e Olena. First classified as “vino da tavola” (table wine) it went on to become one of the first Supertuscan wines, showing the character and longevity of Sangiovese from this high-altitude corner of Chianti Classico. Cepparello is the result of Paolo’s extensive study of the Sangiovese grape and his belief in the potential of its expression.

Today Isole e Olena is recognized for the leading role it played in the emergence of the Chianti Classico region and respected for its authentic style of Chianti Classico – fragrant and well-balanced with purity of fruit – which is representative of its high-altitude territory. In addition to Chianti Classico and Cepparello, Isole e Olena also produces a series of single varietal wines: Chardonnay, Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon, as well as an acclaimed Vin Santo.

The Chianti Classico is Isole e Olena’s most traditional wine. Produced for the first time in 1969, it was immediately recognized as a premium wine, an outstanding and modern reinterpretation of Chianti Classico.

The estate-owned vineyards are located in the San Donato in Poggio area, at an altitude of 300-480 meters on soils with a mixture of limestone, clay slates, marls and sandstone, typical of Chianti Classico. The exposition of the vineyards is generally south-southwest and the vine age ranges from 10 to 50 years.

Elegant and complex, while still eminently drinkable, this wine maintains its true character and authenticity over time. Today it is produced with a high percentage of sangiovese, plus canaiolo. Fermented in stainless steel tanks to maintain purity and freshness, it ages in big casks for 12 months plus 6 months in bottle.

"Made with 90% Sangiovese and 10% Canaiolo, the Isole e Olena 2022 Chianti Classico has soft fruit and cherry with light spice and a hint of Tuscany rosemary or laurel leaf. I like the vibrant and lively quality of fruit in a vintage that also delivers ample ripeness." - 92 Points, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

"The 2022 Chianti Classico is an elegant, gracious wine. Silky tannins frame a core of bright red-toned fruit, rose petal, cinnamon and blood orange. The Chianti Classico is 90% Sangiovese and 10% Canaiolo. The Syrah, once one of founder Paolo De Marchi's quirky touches with this wine, is gone." - 92 Points, Vinous

Producer: Isole e Olena

Country: Italy

Region: Tuscany

Varietal: Sangiovese, Canaiolo

Appellation: Chianti Classico DOCG

Vintage: 2022

Size: 750ml