93pts Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

The Isole delle Falcole 2020 Merlot (with only 1,000 bottles produced) offers a generous expression of the grape that has been treated to 18 months in French barrique. It shows sweet spice along with the savory and earthy tones that come with the territory. From cool vineyards at a high 400 to 520 meters above sea level at the heart of Chianti Classico (in Greve in Chianti), winemaking sees very low yields of 500 grams of fruit per vine from a site with clay-limestone soils with shale and fossils. It opens to cherry liqueur, crème de cassis and ripe fruit. Despite the powerful 15% alcohol content, the wine offers a soft and easy approach overall, with a good dose of vitality as well. This is a precious little production from an up-and-coming boutique estate.

90pts James Suckling

Bright and fruity with aromas of currants, red plums, chocolate and olives. Touch of thyme. It’s full-bodied with ripe, plush tannins. Creamy and balanced. 100% merlot. Drink or hold.

Winemaker Notes

An extraordinary micro-zone between Panzano and Montefioralle is the birthplace of this wine: fruit of meticulously selected grapes from naturally cultivated vineyards, boasting a full southern exposure of elevations between 400 and 520 meters above sea level. Naturally fermented and aged for 18 months in French barriques and 8 months of bottle.