Isole e OlenaChianti Classico 2019

This 2019 Isole e Olena Chianti Classico has pretty, red fruit aromas of ripe cherry against a delicate background of cream and spice. On the palate it is bright, cheerful, and elegant with a straightforward and youthful quality to the fruit and a lovely freshness on the finish. It flows with gentle ease across the palate, and it has supreme drinkability. Full of gentleness, ease and charm.

Owner Paolo di Marchi has not chased the current trend to increase the percentage of Sangiovese and continues to blend Canaiolo Nero and a small percentage of Syrah in his deliciously reliable Chianti Classico. Aromas reveal a warm stone flintiness along with baked Mediterranean herbs and scented purple flowers. Limpid and linear, the palate builds with black plum, rose and sweet earth. Full yet vivid, it's polished yet soulful with seductive truffle nuances to finish, all held together with fine, chalky tannins.

Perfumed nose of dried roses, wild mushrooms, sour cherries, raspberries, olives and spices. Medium-bodied with a firm yet supple tannin frame and a creamy core of red fruit. Delicious finish. Drink or hold.

A very classy wine, the 2019 Chianti Classico is 83% Sangiovese with the rest of the blend going to Canaiolo and other complementary varieties. This pretty entry-level red shows great silkiness and a nuanced bouquet with wild berry, crushed stone, licorice and wildflower. It ages in large oak casks for 12 months to help integrate those flavors. With an abundant 160,000 bottles made, this is a highly recommended value buy.