2020 Le Macchiole Paleo Rosso IGT Bolgheri Organic, Tuscany

A riot of pepper lights up the nose, from cracked black to green peppercorn to hot chili. Flint and leather undertones empower the heat, while aromas of raspberry jam and vanilla provide balance. The palate stays spicy, with snappy, confident acidity, but a sweetness lingers, and a finish of chili and chocolate ties everything together. Transcendent. Drink 2030–2040 or beyond.

98 points Danielle Callegari wineenthusiast.com

Le Macchiole was founded in the early 1980s by Eugenio Campolmi and Cinzia Merli, pioneers of Bolgheri who believed the coastal Tuscan terroir could produce world class single variety wines. After Eugenio’s passing, Cinzia Merli continued the vision with unwavering precision, converting the estate to organic farming and focusing on low yields and meticulous vineyard work. Today the wines are crafted by a dedicated team under her direction, maintaining the philosophy of purity, site expression and varietal integrity. Paleo Rosso began life as a Cabernet Sauvignon but evolved into a pure Cabernet Franc expression, becoming one of Italy’s most celebrated examples of the grape.

The vineyards sit on alluvial soils rich in clay, sand and gravel, influenced by Mediterranean breezes that temper Bolgheri’s warmth. Harvest is carried out parcel by parcel, and fermentation is managed to extract fine tannins and aromatic depth without excess. Maturation in French oak refines structure while allowing Cabernet Franc’s lifted character to shine. The aim is power balanced by freshness and precision.

Deep ruby in colour, the aromas open with blackcurrant, dark cherry and plum layered with violet, graphite and subtle herbal notes. The palate is full bodied and structured, with concentrated dark fruit wrapped in firm, polished tannins and vibrant acidity. Layers of cassis, spice and savoury earth flow into a long, persistent finish with remarkable clarity.

It pairs beautifully with roast lamb, beef, game and richly flavoured Tuscan dishes. While compelling now with careful decanting, it will cellar confidently for twenty years or more, developing complex tertiary nuance.