Isole e Olena Chianti Classico DOCG - 2022

75 cl

James Suckling: 94 points

Alcohol content: 14% vol.

Grape varieties: 82% Sangiovese, 15% Canaiolo and 3% Syrah

Vinification:

The grapes are carefully harvested and selected. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks for around 12 days. The wine then matures for about a year in large wooden barrels (vats) and partly in barriques. Before release, the wine matures for a few months in the bottle.

Tasting note:

Brilliant, rich ruby red colour. Very clear and inviting nose, opens with notes of carob, then ripe blackberry and cherry. Juicy and round in attack and finish, lots of juicy cherry, supple, fine-meshed tannins, savoury and long, beautiful tension.

The legendary winery Isole e Olena is characterised by its high-altitude single vineyard in the Chianti Classico region, owned by the French EPI Group as well as an elegant, delicate style that perfectly showcases the Sangiovese grape.

Region: The vineyard is situated in the heart of the Tuscany in the western part of the Chianti Classico region.

Geography: It is situated above the picturesque Val d’Elsa in the municipality of Barberino Tavarnelle (province of Florence).

Origins: The name derives from the merger of two historic hamlets situated side by side (Isles and Olena), which were merged in 1956.

Current owner: Since 2022, the estate has belonged to the French EPI Group by Christopher Descours. This luxury group also includes, amongst others, leading establishments such as Biondi-Santi (Montalcino) and the champagne house Charles Heidsieck.

History: The estate was founded and developed by the family from 1956 onwards De Marchi. The visionary, in particular, Paolo De Marchi From 1976 onwards, he helped shape the estate’s global reputation and is regarded as one of the region’s most important pioneers („Mr Sangiovese“).

Technical Management: The cellar master has been in charge since 2023 Emanuele Reolon the winemaking process and carries on the estate’s philosophy.

A focus on elegance: Unlike many heavy „Super Tuscans“, what you’re looking for with Isole e Olena No excessive strength or intense concentration. The wines captivate with Refinement, freshness, precise acidity and a profound sense of balance. 

Traditional varieties: For Chianti Classico, alongside Sangiovese, the traditional variety is deliberately used Canaiolo is used, which gives the wine a particular delicacy and floral aromas.

Removal: The wine is aged in French oak barrels, with the process precisely controlled.

The flagship: The winery’s most famous wine is the Cepparello (a single-varietal Sangiovese IGT). It is regarded as one of Tuscany’s earliest and finest cult wines, perfectly reflecting the grape variety’s enormous ageing potential and lively structure.