Isole e Olena Cepparello 2018

Three Glasses, Gambero Rosso: "The current range continues to perform at the heights of excellence, wines with a strong personality, capable of expressing their territory of origin, regardless of the grape. Aromatically, the Sangiovese Cepparello '18 centers on vibrant notes of ripe fruit adorned by spices. In the mouth it's well balanced, unveiling a supple and drinkable palate with a silky touch, very fine it its tannic texture. (2022)"

96 points Monica Larner (Wine Advocate): "A pure expression of Sangiovese, the 2018 Cepparello is a beautiful expression that speaks to the classic and most exemplary side of this versatile and deeply expressive grape. This vintage is especially bright and ethereal with a true sense of luminosity and clarity that radiates from both the wine's appearance and its fragrant bouquet. Tart cherry and cassis segue to balsam herb and wild violets. To the palate, the wine shows muscle and determination with sweet tannins and impressive depth of favor. Cepparello remains true to its unique identity in this vintage. Drink: 2022-2045. (Oct 2021)"

95 points James Suckling: "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. (8/4/21)"

94+ points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The 2018 Cepparello is a brilliant, tightly wound wine that is going to need a number of years to unwind. Today I very much like its energy and vibrancy. Readers will find a Cepparello that is more about persistence than volume. Dark red/purplish berry fruit, spice, lavender and menthol are laced into the silky finish. Drink: 2026-2048. (Sep 2021)"

94 points Stephen Brook (Decanter): " Like the 2018 Chianti Classico, Cepparello shows no dilution, although the pure Sangiovese fruit gives a more austere structure. The sour cherry nose is lightly smoky but refined. Rich and very concentrated, the palate is supported by firm tannins that are in stark contrast to the breezier Chianti Classico. At present it's rather closed and furry, and needs time to harmonise and the tannins to integrate. The high alcohol doesn't show, and there's ample energy on the long finish. Drinking Window: 2022-2040. (Apr 2021)"