Castello dei Rampolla Sammarco Toscana IGT 2018

Critical Acclaim: 98 pts Vinous; 96 pts James Suckling; 95 pts Robert Parker's Wine Advocate; 93 pts Wine Spectator.

Winemaker's Tasting Notes: Sammarco is a very fresh wine with fine aromas of woodland undergrowth and a deep, intense color. It is characterized by distinct aromas of ripe fruit and has a strong concentration of powerful tannins.

"The 2018 Sammarco is brilliant. Bright and explosive, with tons of linear drive, the 2018 is exceptionally polished. Cabernet Sauvignon is up to 80% of the blend, and that very much comes through in a wine endowed with tremendous purity. Blue/purplish fruit, lavender, sage, mint and blood orange all race across the palate. I love the freshness here."- Vinous.

"Gorgeous aromas of blackberries and redcurrants with violets and rosemary follow through to a medium body with fine, tense tannins and an intense, minerally finish. Racy and polished at the end. Long-lasting. Drink after 2026."- James Suckling.

"The Castello dei Rampolla 2018 Sammarco is Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sangiovese. This wine grips tightly to the palate with ample fruit weight and rich concentration. It is chiseled and tight, mostly thanks to its structure and tannins, giving this wine great promise for future aging. The Sammarco stands apart from the other wines in this portfolio that all promote a punchy, bright or natural style. This bottle brings on the brawn, ripe fruit, black olive and a much greater sense of lasting power."- Robert Parker's Wine Advocate.

"While saturated with cherry, plum, earth and tobacco flavors, this rich red is also dense and leaves a tactile feel, with dusty tannins on the finish. Fresh and long, this builds in intensity and complexity. Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese and Merlot. Drink now through 2036."- Wine Spectator.

About the Winery: This historic estate owned by the Di Napoli family since 1964 is situated in Panzano’s Conca d’Oro. Selling its first estate bottles in 1975, Castello dei Rampolla emerged as one of a hand-full of producers who played a major role in the revival of the Chianti Classico. Characterized by innovative and rigorous production strategies, biodynamic methods have been used in the vineyards since 1994. Castello dei Rampolla wines have become cult favorites for their consistency and authenticity.

Varietal: 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Sangiovese and 5% Merlot.