2021 Chianti Classico Fattorie di Isole e Olena

Super-spicy Chianti fully focused on licorice root, restrained black cherries, fresh violets and meaty notes. It seems to be a serious effort, with graphite flavors allied to firm, chalky and chewy tannins, crisp acidity and a super-polished finish. Drinkable now, but can hold.

While Isole e Olena’s vineyards did suffer some minor frost damage in 2021, former owner Paolo de Marchi said it wasn’t dramatic, and fans will be happy to know that there is still ample quantity of this flag-bearing Chianti Classico. Bit by bit, it reveals characteristic nuances of brushwood, currants, rosehip, strawberry and pepper. Succulent and light on feet, the palate is judiciously concentrated with pure and persistent red berries. Taut, integrated tannins provide definition, and it trails off with garden-fresh herbs.

The Isole e Olena 2021 Chianti Classico is a softly textured and charming wine that is impeccably buttoned up and balanced. It offers terrific value at this price point. This wine is packed with bright fruit, wild cherry and blue flower. It ends with a blast of refreshing acidity that is consistent with Sangiovese.

The 2021 Chianti Classico is deceptive in its light color and medium-bodied structure. It possesses notable textural depth and supporting structure. This is such a pretty and expressive wine. Dried herbs, mint, spice and crushed red berry fruit are nicely drawn. Bright acids and floral overtones pull it all together.