Paleo Bolgheri Cabernet Franc

Juicy and deep. Complex. Refined. Dense. Ageable.

Paleo Rosso is one of the symbols of Bolgheri , and “Paleo” is the common name of a species of grass, which grows wild along the Tuscan Coast; best-known Cab Francs. Deep Ruby with aromas fruit, dried herbs and spice for this 100% Cab Franc. On the palate flavors of blackberry and plum with leather, cacao and herbs. Fine tannins, long finish ending with fruit and earthy character. Nice, tasting sample.

One hell of a wine. Wow. Raspberry, basil, mocha. So much going on. Stunning structure. One of the best Can Francs I've ever tasted.

Re-tasted after longer than 10 years
I had a great memory and it hasn't disappointed me at all
Still keeping all the primary fruit, but adding layers of complexity
Very persistent
One of the few bottles from the vintage 2002 in Italy that really shines.... I recall an extraordinary Monfortino 2002, but not much more
First vintage nonetheless of 100% cabernet franc
Bordeaux in Tuscany
I love it

Good bit of wood still present but alluring.

One of my favorite wines of the world, this was a bit of a disappointment actually. Decent fruit and soft/silky texture, but lacking in complexity, power and varietal signature. I’ve loved the 09 in the past — is this a dumb phase or past peak already?

Opaque color. Intriguing bell pepper, asparagus, cabbage and truffle notes. Savory earth, mint, all kinds of dried herbs, lavender and tobacco leaves. Didn’t get much fruit on this one. Elegant. The tannin is moderate and quite soft. Lovely long herbal finish. Lots of potential and will revisit in 3-5 years. 14.5% abv

I guessed old-school Napa producer. The Cab Franc character gave enough menthol/mint along with deep cassis fruit and just the right amount of oak to lead me there. Best wine I’ve had from Le Macchiole. That’s the fun of blind tasting.

Lovely bell pepper and oregano notes. Savory, earthy and the fruit is generous with blackberry and black cherry. Great mouthfeel with dusty chewy tannin. Quite modern style but very nice!

Anthony had this 11 years ago