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Monday, January 22, 2018

Isole e Olena Cabernet Collezione Privata



2013 Isole e Olena Cabernet Collezione Privata...$65.98
The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Collezione Privata is superb. A delicate, nuanced wine in this vintage, the Cabernet Sauvignon speaks in hushed tones. Silky tannins and highly expressive aromatics add to an impression of total finesse. In many vintages, the Cabernet can be quite big, but not in 2013. This is a brilliant showing from Isole and proprietor Paolo De Marchi.
Rated 96/100 Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
Rated 93/100 Wine Advocate

Isole e Olena is one of Tuscany's most renowned and recognizable wineries. If you are at a nice Italian eatery and need a solid bottle of red, their Chianti Classico is probably on the wine list, and is always a safe bet. It reflects the soil and style of the region like no other wine in its price range.

While Chianti is Paolo de Marchi's bread and butter, his Collezione Privata series of wines is what propelled him into the limelight. He was originally hesitant to produce anything but native grapes, but the "Super Tuscan" craze that started in the late 80's tempted him to experiment with international varieties. The gamble paid off. His small lots of Cabernet, Chardonnay, and Syrah have resounding reviews from both wine critics and enthusiastic consumers.

While this Cabernet is clearly from Tuscany, and exudes a beautiful bouquet of wild herbs and mint, it has tons of quintessential Cab flavors like currant and black cherry that will grow and meld together over time. I would probably hold off on opening this one for a few years. It will be worth the wait!

We snagged another 8 six-packs right before the new Vinous Media article hit, and do not expect it to last long.

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