Variety: Cabernet Franc

It is not enough to say that Isole e Olena is held to the highest regard and winemaker Paolo de Marchi has an unquestionable vision. Fourth generation winemaker Paolo De Marchi studied Agriculture at the University of Turin and worked harvests in California and France before returning to the family estate in 1976. He found much need for improvement and modernization in the Chianti Classico region. Paolo discovered a way to balance tradition with innovation by planting international varieties. Isole e Olena is named for the formation of the two estates that were purchased by the De Marchi family in the 1950s. He's earned a reputation as “Mr. Sangiovese” and also the “Dean of Chianti.” He sold the estate and completed his last vintage for Isole e Olena in 2022 after 50 years.

Coming from sandy soils in Lessona that are much better suited for Nebbiolo, this Cabernet Franc marches to the beat of its own drum. It hails from a vineyard in Lessona right outside the winery. This wine ages in half French oak barriques, the other half ageing in new oak barrels, all for 40 months. It will remain bottled until its release.