2011 Le Miccine, Chianti Classico DOCG, Tuscany, Italy.
The Le Miccine estate is located in the heart of Chianti Classic between Radda and Gaiole, in fact it is closer and part of Gaiole and it sits in a unique micro-climate in the hills, it is at about 400 Metres and has a slight valley effect which makes it a near perfect terroir with warm days and cooler nights allowing a long ripening season. The estate is now owned and run by the beautiful and dynamic Paula Papini Cook, who took it over in 2010 at the young age of 24, she is experienced in winemaking already with past work at Le Nozzole and in Bordeaux, she holds both French and Italian doctorates in winemaking and has converted Le Miccine to organic practices and has put out some compelling wines, including this wonderful Chianti Classico that is mostly of course Sangiovese, but with a bit of Malvasia Nera and Colorino in the blend, it was gently fermented in stainless then after malo it is then aged between 12-16 months in large French cask, Paula will employ differing techniques depending on vintage demands to capture the essence of her terroir, so far so good, and I can’t wait to see how this new project develops, it has incredible potential and the talented Papini Cook looks to be living the dream. The 2011 Le Miccini is a forward lush Chianti with rich flavors, pretty detailing and outstanding depth with good structure and balance, I was highly impressed, it starts with floral notes, sweet and savory elements from dried flowers, wild herbs and dark fruits with a touch of game and spice leading to a round generous palate of blackberry, red cherry, plum and strawberry reduction along with tobacco leaf, minty anise, crushed lavender, a hint of meat, mineral tones and a touch balsamic. The finish is fruity and the acidity is well integrated leaving a long aftertaste, but with nice freshness for a 14+ percent red. I tasted the sample bottle over the course of three days and it just got better and better with each sip, these are entreating wines. Drink this lovely wine over the next 3-5 years, I am hoping Le Miccine will be more available in the USA soon, now it is hard to find, and I’m grateful to Paula Papini Cook for sending the samples, so I could try her wines, so if any importers are listening, you should check out Le Miccine! www.lemiccine.com
($22 Est.) 92 Points, grapelive
