The Isola delle Falcole 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG is an extraordinary expression of Sangiovese born from one of the most coveted micro-terroirs in the heart of Chianti Classico. Produced from a tiny vineyard nestled between Panzano and Montefioralle, this handcrafted Gran Selezione reflects the remarkable combination of high-altitude vineyards, naturally farmed vines, and meticulous grape selection.
Founded in 2015 by three lifelong friends—Emanuele Graetz, Alessandro Mannelli, and Niccolò Righini—Isola delle Falcole has quickly established itself as one of Tuscany's most exciting boutique estates. Their philosophy is simple: exceptional wines begin in exceptional vineyards. Today, the estate farms only a handful of hectares, with vineyards ranging from 35 to 75 years old, focusing entirely on quality over quantity.
Produced from 100% Sangiovese, this Gran Selezione comes from south- and southeast-facing vineyards situated between 480 and 520 meters above sea level, where cool nights preserve freshness and limestone-rich marl soils contribute remarkable elegance and minerality. The grapes undergo spontaneous fermentation with native yeasts before aging for 30 months in large French and Slavonian oak casks, followed by 8 months of bottle refinement.
With only 2,600 bottles produced, this is a rare, collectible Chianti Classico that beautifully showcases the purity, energy, and longevity of world-class Sangiovese.
Tasting Notes
Brilliant deep ruby in color, the bouquet is layered and expressive, opening with aromas of ripe black cherry, wild raspberry, dried violets, rose petals, cedar, tobacco, crushed herbs, graphite, and baking spices, complemented by subtle earthy undertones.
The palate is refined yet powerful, revealing concentrated flavors of red cherry, blackberry, plum, blood orange, licorice, leather, and savory herbs, framed by beautifully polished tannins and vibrant acidity. Notes of crushed stone and warm spice emerge through the long, elegant finish, highlighting the distinctive limestone-rich soils of Panzano.
Richly textured yet remarkably fresh, this Gran Selezione captures the elegance and precision that define Tuscany's finest Sangiovese wines.
About Isola delle Falcole
The story of Isola delle Falcole began with a dream shared by three close friends who believed that one extraordinary vineyard could produce extraordinary wines.
After years searching throughout Chianti Classico, they discovered a tiny one-hectare parcel between Montefioralle and Panzano, perched nearly 500 meters above sea level where falcons once nested. Inspired by this unique site, they founded Isola delle Falcole ("Island of the Falcons") with the goal of producing terroir-driven wines that honor both tradition and nature.
Their vineyards are farmed according to natural agricultural principles, using only minimal non-systemic treatments. Fermentations occur spontaneously with indigenous yeasts, sulfites are kept to an absolute minimum, and the wines are bottled without filtration whenever possible to preserve their purity and authenticity.
Every bottle reflects an uncompromising commitment to vineyard expression, sustainability, and craftsmanship.
Vineyards & Terroir
The vineyards occupy one of Chianti Classico's finest natural amphitheaters between Panzano and Montefioralle, where south-facing slopes maximize sun exposure while high elevations preserve freshness and aromatic complexity.
The soils consist primarily of clay, limestone, marl, and fossil-rich galestro, producing Sangiovese with exceptional minerality, structure, and elegance.
To maximize concentration, the estate performs two rounds of green harvesting, reducing yields dramatically to approximately 600–900 grams of fruit per vine, ensuring only the finest grapes reach the winery.
Winemaking
- 100% Sangiovese
- Naturally farmed vineyards
- Native yeast fermentation
- Stainless steel fermentation
- 12–15 day maceration
- 30 months in large French and Slavonian oak casks (20 hl)
- 8 months bottle aging
- Minimal intervention
- Minimal sulfites
- Unfiltered whenever possible
- Only 2,600 bottles produced
Critical Acclaim
94 Points – Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
An outstanding example of modern Chianti Classico Gran Selezione, praised for its depth, elegance, purity of fruit, and exceptional expression of terroir.
Food Pairing
Pairs beautifully with:
- Bistecca alla Fiorentina
- Grilled ribeye
- Osso Buco
- Wild boar ragù
- Pappardelle with porcini mushrooms
- Roast lamb
- Duck breast
- Aged Pecorino Toscano
- Parmigiano Reggiano
- Truffle dishes
Why You'll Love This Wine
- 94 Points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
- Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG
- 100% Sangiovese
- Boutique producer
- Naturally farmed vineyards
- Native yeast fermentation
- High-altitude vineyards
- Only 2,600 bottles produced
- 30 months in large oak casks
- Exceptional aging potential
- One of Tuscany's rising star estates
Serving Suggestions
-
Serving Temperature: 60–64°F (16–18°C)
-
Decant: 1–2 hours recommended.
-
Cellaring: Drink now through 2042.
