Meningen over 2021 Paleo Rosso (0,75L)

Monica Larner, robertparker.com: 97

In many ways, this bottle best represents the modern face of Bolgheri. I am referring to the chapter that starts after the international success of the so-called "aia" wines (Sassicaia and Ornellaia). In this new world, Coastal Tuscany faces new importan...

"In many ways, this bottle best represents the modern face of Bolgheri. I am referring to the chapter that starts after the international success of the so-called "aia" wines (Sassicaia and Ornellaia). In this new world, Coastal Tuscany faces new important challenges linked to climate change and competition from other celebrated Tuscan wine appellations. Debuted in 1989, what sets it apart is the choice of grape: Cabernet Franc. Paleo was a lone ranger back then, but today the percentage of new Cabernet Franc vineyards in the region is taking off at breakneck speed. But Le Macchiole was the first to work with it at this quality level. The 2021 Paleo is especially tight, intense and direct. These are characteristics of the vintage and of the house style. I tasted this vintage from barrel two years ago, and my remark was that the wine focuses on red and purple fruits as well as the black ones. This remains true now that the wine is in bottle. Those fruit tones cede to a floral interlude of heritage rose that leads to mulled spice and Turkish coffee. The 2021 vintage is slightly curbed or streamlined in terms of mouthfeel, holding back just a bit for extra tension and extremely elegant results. "

Isobel Salamon, Decanter: 98

Antonio Galloni, Vinous: 97+

The 2021 Paleo Rosso (Cabernet Franc) soars out of the glass with high-toned Franc aromatics. Crushed red-toned fruit, blood orange, espresso, mocha, licorice and exotic spice infuse the palate with a notable textural intensity that builds over time. Pal...

"The 2021 Paleo Rosso (Cabernet Franc) soars out of the glass with high-toned Franc aromatics. Crushed red-toned fruit, blood orange, espresso, mocha, licorice and exotic spice infuse the palate with a notable textural intensity that builds over time. Paleo Rosso typically needs a few years in bottle to blossom. I expect that will be the case here as well. It’s an impressive wine from Le Macchiole. Aging was 16 months, mostly in low-toast French oak barrels, with a touch (4%) of stoneware amphora. "

jamessuckling.com: 96