Isole e Olena Chianti Classico

Isole e Olena Chianti Classico: A Tuscan Benchmark

Isole e Olena Chianti Classico is one of those wines that shows exactly why Chianti Classico has such a devoted following. Elegant, vibrant and unmistakably Tuscan, it comes from one of the region’s most highly regarded estates and is often considered a benchmark expression of the appellation. If you enjoy Sangiovese with plenty of fruit, freshness and savoury character, this is well worth trying.

Isole e Olena lies in the western part of Chianti Classico, just north of Castellina. The estate was created in the 1950s when the neighbouring properties of Isole and Olena were brought together by the De Marchi family, although both have histories stretching back for centuries. Paolo De Marchi later became one of the most influential figures in modern Tuscan wine, helping establish Isole e Olena as one of the names to know in the region.

The estate’s relatively high vineyards and cooler position in western Chianti Classico help give its wines their particularly fragrant, elegant character. Sangiovese takes centre stage here, producing a wine with the brightness and structure you would expect from serious Chianti, while remaining wonderfully approachable at the table.

In the glass, Isole e Olena Chianti Classico is beautifully aromatic, with red and dark cherries, ripe plum and hints of dried fruit alongside violet, Mediterranean herbs and gentle savoury spice. The palate is medium-bodied and dry, with lively acidity, fine tannins and enough structure to give the wine real presence without becoming heavy. There is a lovely balance between juicy fruit and more savoury, earthy notes, finishing fresh, persistent and distinctly Tuscan.

Isole e Olena Chianti Classico Food Pairing Suggestion:

Isole e Olena Chianti Classico is a superb food wine, thanks to its bright acidity, savoury character and fine tannins.

• Pasta dishes: A natural match for tomato-based pasta sauces and richer meat ragùs. Try it with pappardelle with wild boar, tagliatelle Bolognese or a classic lasagne.
• Roasted meats: Its medium body and savoury fruit work beautifully with roast beef, lamb or pork, particularly when served with herbs, garlic or roasted vegetables.
• Hard cheeses: The wine’s freshness and tannins are excellent alongside salty, mature cheeses such as Parmesan, Pecorino or aged Cheddar.
• Pizza: Chianti Classico’s lively acidity and cherry fruit make it brilliant with pizza, especially toppings such as Italian sausage, mushrooms, olives or cured meats.
• Grilled vegetables: Its savoury, herbal character pairs particularly well with grilled aubergine, courgette and peppers, especially with a little olive oil and herbs.