01.13.16 Wine of the Week: Chianti Powerhouse

 

 

This delicious Chianti Classico blends of 80% Sangiovese, 15% Canaiolo and 5% Syrah from fruit grown exclusivey on the Isole e Olena estate. Situated in the heart of Chianti Classico, in the idyllic rolling hillsides between Siena and Florence, this property boasts some of the best vineyards in the region. The high-draining soils composed of limestone, clay slates and sandstone combine with altitude and aspect to create the ideal growing conditions for Sangiovese to achieve optimum flavor and phenolic ripeness. Originally separate estates that had been in production for hundreds of years, 'Isole' and 'Olena' were purchased by the De Marchi family in the 1950s and combined to form this 'powerhouse' estate. Fourth-generation winemaker Paolo De Marchi is credited with being the force behind great improvements at the estate as well as many positive changes in the region as a whole. All the grapes for the 2013 Chianti Classico were hand-harvested and fermented in stainless steel before aging in large 4,000 liter casks for one year prior to bottling.

91 points Robert Parker: "The 2013 Chianti Classico wears oversized aromas of dark fruit and cherry that suit the wine very nicely. This is an outwardly generous and beautifully intense wine that mirrors all the high qualities of this celebrated vintage. Red fruit notes of cherry and cassis are woven within a greater context that sees crushed mineral and spice. The growing season was slow and steady leading to perfectly ripe fruit. Isole e Olena adds a bit of Canaiolo to the Sangiovese and those deep, dark fruit elements of the added grape come out strongly in this vintage. There is no way not to be totally overwhelmed by the stunning beauty of the tiny twin hamlets of Isole and Olena that straddle either side of this historic property. Paolo De Marchi's enthusiastic and engaging personality defines the landmark set of wines before you." (ML, 10/2015)

Wine Advocate: "Proprietor Paolo De Marchi has left an indelible and highly personal stamp on Isole e Olena, and all of Chianti Classico for that matter... De Marchi stands apart from many of his colleagues for his vocal opinions and intense dedication to the vineyard above all else. Since taking over his family’s estate... De Marchi has transformed Isole e Olena into a powerhouse." (AG, 06/2012)

2013 ISOLE E OLENA CHIANTI CLASSICO

Regular: $26.99

This Week: $24.29

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* Special pricing is valid thru Tuesday 1/19/16 while supplies last. Discount for web orders will be applied when order is processed. Orders are processed on first-come basis and shipped to specified shipping address unless otherwise noted. No further discounts apply.