Winemaker Notes
First produced in 1989, this incredible wine is the symbol of the winery, and it truly epitomizes Bolgheri. At first, the wine was a classic Bordeaux blend but became a Cabernet Franc monovarietal in 2001; since then, it has been a huge success. The name "paleo" refers to a wild herb found on the Tuscan coast, and it symbolizes a strong local identity and the will to reach all goals.
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
Like all of the wines of Le Macchiole, the 2021 Paleo is coursing with energy, exuding a self-assured confidence that makes it stand out even in a category of wines that are defined by their unabashed bravado. It’s interesting that this seems to have sometimes played against its favor in critical reception, even as other much brawnier wines have been more lauded, but as Machiavelli said, if you can’t be both feared and loved, better to be feared.
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Jeb Dunnuck
This is an extraordinary vintage of the 2021 Paleo that I was able to taste several times. Profound and complex, it’s balanced, layered, and pure. The nose cascades with aromas of cassis, graphite, fresh mint, crushed Mediterranean herbs, polished leather, and tobacco. The palate has a good deal of depth, but it’s focused and detailed. It has a noble feel, with a mouthwatering structure and a long-lasting and exceptional finish. Rating: 97+
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
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.
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Vinous
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. Rating: 97+
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James Suckling
Wow. This is very polished and sophisticated with currant, spice, fresh-herb and cedar character that goes on for minutes on the finish. The tannins are so refined yet muscular, with form and tension. Give this time to soften and come around, but a very serious red by all accounts. Small percentage of amphora aging.
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Wine Spectator
Mint, bell pepper and vanilla accents frame the core of blackberry and black currant flavors in this supple red, which feels open, despite the dense, assertive tannins that leave a pleasant astringency on the finish.
Long before it was fashionable, Eugenio Campolmi saw the potential of his homeland, buying his first vineyard in Bolgheri in 1975 baptised "Le Macchiole". In 1987, he hired famed oenologist Vittorio Fiore as a consultant before the later was joined by Luca d'Attoma for years later. In contrast to his renowned neighbors who focused on Bordeaux blends, Campolmi focused on achieving the purest expression of individual varieties, crafting distinct wines of unprecedented quality. Soon Le Macchiole joined Sassicaia, Ornellaia, and Guado al Tasso as one of the most prestigious estates in Bolgheri. Following Eugenio's death in 2002, his wife Cinzia Merli, who shares her husband's passion, took over at the estate. Working with Luca D'Attoma, she has carried on her husband's legacy by continuing to make great Tuscan wines.
Legendary in Italy for its Renaissance art and striking landscape, Tuscany is also home to many of the country’s best red wines. Sangiovese reigns supreme here, as either the single varietal, or a dominant player, in almost all of Tuscany’s best.
A remarkable Chianti, named for its region of origin, will have a bright acidity, supple tannins and plenty of cherry fruit character. From the hills and valleys surrounding the medieval village of Montalcino, come the distinguished and age-worthy wines based on Brunello (Sangiovese). Earning global acclaim since the 1970s, the Tuscan Blends are composed solely of international grape varieties or a mix of international and Sangiovese. The wine called Vine Nobile di Montepulciano, composed of Prognolo Gentile (Sangiovese) and is recognized both for finesse and power.