2018 Cabernet Franc IGT Paleo Le Macchiole

Falstaff 98, powerful, sparkling ruby ​​with a slight violet shimmer. Opens on the nose with notes of tobacco and blackberries, with a little sandalwood. Blooms on the palate, lots of juicy fruit, dark cherry and mulberry, opens with dense, fine-meshed tannins, easy to drink.

Parker - Monica Larner 97, 2023 - 2045, You could argue that this wine changed Italian wine, because it was the first to fully embrace the potential of Cabernet Franc in the Bel Paese. The Le Macchiole 2018 Paleo has a spicy and tangy personality with dark fruit, bitter chocolate and tarry smoke. Coming back to my open bottle 24 hours later, I got some green olive and rosemary essence. The mouthfeel fleshes out considerably, and there is beautiful structure to hold it firmly together. Other vintners in Bolgheri have told me of their difficulties with Cabernet Franc in the 2018 vintage, which saw rain towards the end of the season. This wine feels magically immune to those issues and probably means that the expert vineyard team harvested at the right moment.

Galloni 96+,

Suckling 94, Aromas of blackberries, blueberries, plums, chocolate and mushrooms. It's full-bodied with fine-grained tannins and lively acidity. Round and creamy with harmony and balance. Fresh, yet focused, with chocolate and black-fruit character. Long, flavorful finish with some spices. Drinkable now, but best from 2022.