2001 Isole e Olena, Toscana IGT, Cepparello (RT 95) SO’d for the day, then served directly from bottle as there was little, if any sediment. A stunning bottle, this was bought on release and cellared since. Showing a glowing ruby garnet hue, here the expression of pure and penetrating Sangiovese is impressive with notes of red cherry, Tuscan scruff, savory herbs and dusty spices. The palate is glorious, revealing superb balance, beautiful freshness and exceptional balance with a caressing, long finish. The tannins have blended into the background wonderfully. While Paolo de Marchi has gained much notoriety in the last decade as a world class winemaker, this wine predates that fame, yet demonstrates how remarkable his skills were back almost 20 years ago. A fabulous showing for the 2001 Cepparello, a wine that has gotten almost no reviews to-date. One of the top Sangiovese IGT bottlings and highly recommended! Drink now – 2030
