2021 Le Macchiole Rosso

A youthful ruby/purple hue, the 2021 Le Macchiole is showing off, with fabulous aromas that can only be found in Tuscany. Opening in the glass, it is layered with aromas of cherry liqueur, fresh sage, crushed pine needles, and violets. The palate has great tension, with a focused and balanced feel. Ripe, coiled tannins, refreshing acidity, and a long finish make this one outstanding Rosso that will undoubtedly improve in the rare instances where people have the luxury of aging this wine. It’s a steal and should not be overlooked for its aging potential – stash a case away and check in on it over the next 15 years. Drink 2025-2038. One of the benchmark wineries of Bolgheri, Eugenio Campolmi and Cinzia Merli purchased this estate in 1983 and planted their first four hectares of vines. Today, Cinzia Merli is joined by her two sons, Elia and Mattia, who work together to run the estate. Their holdings now consist of ten parcels, eight in Bolgheri and two in Bibbona, just to the north. In the vineyards, they practice organic farming while also implementing some biodynamic practices. Paleo Rosso’s first vintage was in 1989, before becoming exclusively dedicated to Cabernet Franc in 2001. Today, they make some of the most compelling ranges of single-varietal wines. Messorio is dedicated to Merlot, Scrio to Syrah, and Paleo Rosso to Cabernet Franc.

The 2021 Bolgheri Rosso gorgeous wine shows how compelling this vintage is on the Tuscan coast. Effusive and deep, the 2021 is beautifully layered from start to finish. Gentle touches of mocha, new leather, cedar, tobacco and dried flowers add complexity throughout.

The Le Macchiole 2021 Bolgheri Rosso is a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. The wine kicks it up from the start with bold but also very fresh fruit tones of dark cherry and blackberry. The quality of the primary fruit is spot-on, especially in this balanced vintage, and you get fun, punchy flavors to pair with grilled meats and a side a French Fries. The wine has enough structure, acidity and elegant tannins to stand up to the fat in those foods.