The 2020 Chianti Classico is such a classy wine. Deep and layered, yet wonderfully translucent, the 2020 is one of the best editions of this wine I can remember tasting. Macerated dark cherry, kirsch, cedar and pipe tobacco open first, but what I am most drawn to is the wine's textural resonance and sheer power. The 2020 possesses remarkable depth yet retains the transparency that is such a signature here. This is a fabulous showing.

Lots of ripe fruit flavors with orange peel and stony minerality. Medium- to full-bodied with an array of round, velvety tannins. Even and broad with a lingering finish. Very attractive. Drink or hold.

One of Chianti Classico’s most illustrious properties, Isole e Olena was established in 1956. After more than 45 years at the helm, Paolo de Marchi sold the estate last year to luxury company EPI, which also acquired Biondi Santi in 2016. This 2020 takes some time to reveal its tempting fragrance. Wafting flint, cardamom and pepper make way for early spring blossoms and red berries. It has a graceful flow along with a sumptuousness and succulence of raspberry and red plum. Fine powdery tannins frame it. A juicy follow up to the excellent 2019. Drinking Window: 2023 - 2029
Tasted by: Michaela Morris (at Stazione Leopolda, Florence, 13 Feb 2023)
Part of Chianti Classico Annata: New releases in 2023

The Isole e Olena 2020 Chianti Classico opens to a dark ruby color and medium concentration. The bouquet offers pretty fruit aromas with dried cherry and raspberry. Those bright primary tones segue to crushed stone and potting soil. This playful, entry-level wine ends with a bright spot of sweet cherry.

San Donato in Poggio. 82% Sangiovese, 18% 'other varieties'. Cask sample. Just mid crimson. Finely fragrant, sweet raspberry nose. Beautiful precision on the palate with crushed-raspberry fruit and polished, fine tannins. (WS)

Lean, light style with restrained sour-cherry fruit and a touch of all-spice on the finish. High acid, medium tannin, finishes with typical bitterness. Old-school Chianti that seems to have more acidic structure than it does flavour. Perhaps not in ideal condition, given this estate's track record? (RH)