Viniou Reviews
The Isole e Olena Cepparello 2019 is a standout Tuscan red, showcasing the elegance and structure that has made this estate’s flagship cuvée so revered. As a pure Sangiovese, Cepparello delivers the grape’s vibrant cherry and red plum character with layered notes of dried herbs, cedar, violets and a subtle, savoury earthiness. The 2019 vintage benefitted from a warm but balanced growing season, allowing for ideal ripeness and concentration while retaining freshness. Vinification here is meticulous, with fermentation in stainless steel and extended ageing in a combination of new and used French oak barrels, lending polished tannins and aromatic complexity without masking the fruit purity.
Tuscany, particularly in the hills north of Siena where Isole e Olena is situated, is famed for its rolling vineyards and ancient winemaking tradition. The region's galestro soils—rich in clay and limestone—are perfectly suited to Sangiovese, providing both structure and minerality. The climate here is typically Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers tempered by cooling breezes from the nearby Apennines, encouraging slow, even grape maturation. This combination of terroir and climate underpins the finesse and age-worthiness synonymous with Cepparello.
Pairing Cepparello is a pleasure, given its layered complexity and vibrant acidity. Traditional Tuscan fare is a natural match—think bistecca alla fiorentina (chargrilled Florentine steak), wild boar ragù over pappardelle, or aged Pecorino cheese. The wine’s tannic backbone and bright fruit also complement rich tomato-based dishes, grilled lamb, or even roast duck with herby accents. For vegetarians, consider truffle risotto or aubergine parmigiana to mirror the wine’s earthy undertones.
For optimal enjoyment, decant Cepparello for at least an hour before serving to allow the bouquet to unfurl. Serve at a cool room temperature, ideally between 16-18°C, to showcase its aromatic depth, supple texture, and fine-tuned balance. This wine promises significant evolution over the next decade if cellared under proper conditions.
