Collezione Privata Cabernet 2014 Toscana IGT - Isole e Olena

Collezione Privata Cabernet 2014 – Isole e Olena

Isole e Olena is synonymous with Sangiovese thanks to Cepparello, but Paolo De Marchi has always been curious about international varieties. His pure Cabernet Sauvignon, made since the mid-1980s and long called Collezione De Marchi, is now released as Collezione Privata. The estate lies in Barberino Tavarnelle, in the north-western corner of Chianti Classico.

The Cabernet comes from about five hectares at 400 metres, facing south and south-west. Fermentation in stainless steel, then about a year in barriques of different ages, only partly new, and a long rest in bottle before release.

2014 was a cool, wet vintage that gave hillside wines of energy rather than opulence. Here Cabernet shows blackcurrant, blueberry, roasted pepper, mint and eucalyptus, with fine tannins and good freshness; time in bottle is starting to add cedar and tobacco. A Tuscan hill Cabernet, far from the opulent coastal style. With herb-crusted lamb, rib steak or aged cheeses.

At a glance: Cabernet Sauvignon 100% · 15% ABV · 0.75 l · Isole e Olena, Chianti Classico