How does a winery stand out and make a name for itself when it is surrounded by such producers as Antinori, Sassicaia, and Ornellaia? They produce single varietal wines to separate themselves from everyone else. At least that is what Le Macchiole did in the early 90’s. Now with a cult like following, Le Macchiole produces 5 wines that all consistently get highly rated by critics. One in particular that I had the pleasure of trying was the 2011 Le Macchiole Paleo which is 100% Cabernet Franc.
Le Macchiole was founded in 1983 by Eugenio Campolmi and wife Cinzia Merli. The first wine they produced was bottled in 1987, but it wasn’t until 1989 when Paleo was first created. Then in 1994 came the decision to start producing single varietal wines starting with the Messorio which is 100% Merlot and the Scrio which is 100% Syrah. Then in 2001 they changed their signature wine the Paleo to 100% Cabernet Franc. In 2002, just as things started to take off at the winery and get a following, Eugenio passed away and was taken over by his wife Cinzia. Now with Cinzia still in charge the winery has almost 60 acres of vineyards, which they farm organically, and has only become more popular with wine lovers and critics.
So I had the opportunity to have the 2011 Le Macchiole Paleo. This wine did not disappoint. With the wine being 100% Cabernet Franc you might tend to think it will be like wines from the Loire, however that is not the case. This grape definitely takes on the terrior that it is grown in. There of course were some characteristics of typical Cabernet Franc, but with an Italian twist. The nose upfront is floral and intense, with spice and dark fruit. Then on the palate it is a big wine no doubt, but with an elegance about it that makes the wine all come together beautifully. This wine will last a long time, but so very enjoyable now. Also at $79.95 it is a steal, pick up some while you can.
“The 2011 Paleo Rosso is flat-out stunning. Mocha, espresso, black cherry and plums jump from the glass in a voluptuous, nuanced wine of the very highest level. The 2011 is firing on all cylinders today. Firm yet nicely integrated tannins struggle to contain a rush of exuberant fruit in this large-scaled, intense wine. Today, the oak is a bit present, but that has never been an issue before in terms of how these wines come together in bottle and age. With each passing vintage it becomes increasingly clear that Paleo Rosso is Le Macchiole's benchmark wine. A recent bottle of the 2010 was beautiful beyond words.” -- 96+ Antonio Galloni