Isole e Olena 'Cepparello' Toscana IGT

Toscana IGT, Tuscany

The name Cepparello is taken from a stream originating in the highest point of the vineyards on the Isole e Olena estate. Cepparello is the embodiment of the unwavering dedication of Paolo De Marchi to quality, to the land, to Sangiovese, and a testament to his life's work.This Sangiovese was produced for the first time in 1980, becoming one of the first Super Tuscans.

Tasting Notes

Intense and bright ruby in color. On the nose a complex bouquet ranging from floral to wild berries with hints of spice. The palate is characterized by red cherries, earthy with a depth of complex savory acidity and soft tannins.

A mild and relatively dry winter and early spring allowed for regular budding. Some rains during the second half of spring prepared the terrain for a classic summer with little rain and characterized by regular, warm temperatures with very few extreme peaks. Bunches were in excellent health which resulted in a generous yield, both in terms of quality and quantity.

AGING: Approximately 18 months in 225L French barrels (30% new)

Each year, Cepparello is produced with a selection of grapes from the best and oldest estate vineyards, located on the Isole e Olena property in the north-western part of Chianti Classico.

SOIL: Mostly galestro(rocky schist & clay)
ELEVATION: 400–480 meters(1,312–1,574 feet) above sea level
DENSITY:
- Older vineyards: 3,000 vines/hectare (1,215 vines/acre)
- New Vineyards: 6,500–7,350 vines/hectare (2,632–2,976 vines/acre)
EXPOSURE: South, South-West
VINE AGE: 13–55 years old
TRAINING: Spur-pruned cordon and guyot

VARIETAL: Sangiovese
ALCOHOL: 15%
pH: 3.5
RS: 1g/L
TA: 5.51g/L

  • 95

    points

    Decanter, January 2023

    "The weather in 2019 was beautiful, with a hot, even summer with no temperature spikes, continuing into September with high variation between daytime and nighttime temperatures. Fragrant potpourri and medicinal aromas are reminiscent of the 2006, while the textured palate features pure, ripe cherry with some damp earth and even an umami hint of mushroom, cut through by bright acidity. Lively and dimensional, it's still in its youthful phase but should be superb once it's had time to grow into itself."

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  • 95

    points

    James Suckling, March 2023

    "The aromas of dark fruit and hazelnuts are so enticing, with undertones of licorice and slate. Medium to full body with round tannins and a savory finish. It’s so pretty to taste now. Just a hint of allspice at the end. Drinkable now, but better in 2023."

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  • 97+

    points

    Wine Advocate, February 2023

    "One of the icon wines of Tuscany, the Isole e Olena 2019 Cepparello is all Sangiovese crafted by the loving hands of a winemaking legend, the great Paolo De Marchi (who finalized the sale of his beloved estate when this wine hit the market). Indeed, this wine opens a discussion on the future of this celebrated IGT Toscana, a wine that followed a strict vision and style under De Marchi. It is elegant and rich with fine aromas of black and purple fruit. It ferments in oak and ages in French barrique for 20 months, with one-third new oak. With 58,000 bottles released, this is a sure candidate for long cellar aging."

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TRADE & MEDIA ASSETS /////////////////

Isole e Olena – Brand Sales Sheet

2019 Isole e Olena ‘Cepparello’ Toscana IGT – Sales Sheet

2019 Isole e Olena ‘Cepparello’ Toscana IGT – Vintage Notes

Isole e Olena ‘Cepparello’ Toscana IGT – Label

2019 Isole e Olena ‘Cepparello’ Toscana IGT – 97 pts, Wine Advocate – Shelftalker

Isole e Olena ‘Cepparello’ Toscana IGT – Bottle