2011 Chianti Classico
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Tasting notes
Ripe cherry and strawberry give the 2011 Chianti Classico warm climate appeal. There’s a sweet note of fruit on the close, backed by the fresh acidity you can expect from Sangiovese. This wine is best for near-term consumption.
Critic scores
Average Score
Walter Speller, jancisrobinson.com
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Sweet raspberry, rose petal and spice notes wrap around the palate in the 2011 Chianti Classico. Soft and enveloping, the 2011 is highly typical of the vintage. In 2011 proprietor Paolo De Marchi used about 10% Syrah to give the wine a little more freshness. Savory herbs, tobacco and licorice add nuance on the finish. The 2011 is an outstanding wine. I would drink the 2011 now and give the 2010 another year in bottle.
Cask sample. Healthy mid crimson. Lifted sweet raspberry and strawberry nose with an earthy undertone and hints of baking spice. Lots of extract and bite, and with chewy bitter tannins. A little crude on the finish, and still needs to come together, but good potential and a fine effort for the vintage. (WS)
About the producer
Situated north of Castellina, on the western side of Chianti Classico, Isole e Olena was created by the De Marchi family in the 1950s and has since become one of the region’s leading names. It is renowned for its top bottling Cepparello, a pure Sangiovese, as well as its brilliant Chardonnay.