Estate-grown, hand-harvested grapes are fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks with approximately 15 days maceration. During fermentation, delestage and pumping-over takes place twice a day. After the malolactic fermentation, the wine is racked into barrels and 4,000 liter casks where it matures for about one year.
Winemaker Notes
Crafted to capture the fruit flavors and bouquet of Chianti, this wine shows great balance and drinkability with a lively acidity to pair with a wide range of foods. Our goal is to produce an outstanding Chianti Classico which expresses the site and our traditional varieties, Sangiovese and Canaiolo.
Professional Ratings
93
DecanterOne of Chianti Classico’s most illustrious properties, Isole e Olena was established in 1956. After more than 45 years at the helm, Paolo de Marchi sold the estate last year to luxury company EPI, which also acquired Biondi Santi in 2016. This 2020 takes some time to reveal its tempting fragrance. Wafting flint, cardamom and pepper make way for early spring blossoms and red berries. It has a grace
92
VinousThe 2022 Chianti Classico is an elegant, gracious wine. Silky tannins frame a core of bright red-toned fruit, rose petal, cinnamon and blood orange. The Chianti Classico is 90% Sangiovese and 10% Canaiolo. The Syrah, once one of founder Paolo De Marchi’s quirky touches with this wine, is gone. The 2022 spent 12 months in cask.
91
Wine AdvocateThe Isole e Olena 2020 Chianti Classico opens to a dark ruby color and medium concentration. The bouquet offers pretty fruit aromas with dried cherry and raspberry. Those bright primary tones segue to crushed stone and potting soil. This playful, entry-level wine ends with a bright spot of sweet cherry.
About the Producer
Founded in 1956 by Francesco De Marchi, this historic Chianti Classico estate is located in the western part of the denomination, near Castellina in Chianti, in the commune of Barberina Val d’Elsa. Isole e Olena’s 56 hectares (138 acres) of vineyards sit at 350-450 meters (1,148 – 1,476 feet) above sea level on soils of galestro and marly schist. In 1975, Francesco’s son, Paolo De Marchi, ushered in a new era at Isole e Olena by taking over the estate. With his background in agricultural studies, Paolo started to revolutionize the winery beginning in the vineyards.
