Chiara Condello is one of the bright, rising star winemakers of Italy. While she might be young, I find her Predappio Sangiovese tastes like a wine made by someone who's been at it for many years.
Rated 95 points by Wine Enthusiast, this is world-class Sangiovese from a highly talented vigneron!
This is Sangiovese from Romagna, where many ampelographers believe the grape was born, and Chiara's Predappio possesses a style that can best be described as Brunello-like. This is dark, powerful, and structured Sangiovese that takes a bit of time to blossom, but after about an hour in the decanter, this really turns into something special.
Wine Enthusiast rated it 95 points, and they described it perfectly. "Savory and earthy aromas, with dark spices and a hint of pepper, immediately draw you into this intriguing wine. The palate is dark and brooding, with deep plum flavors layered with savory herbs, hints of dried hay and crushed sea shells. DELICIOUS!!"
Delicious it is, and even better, it comes from three different, certified organic vineyards, and it is aged for 12 months in Slavonian botti (large, mostly neutral, oak casks), which allows the natural beauty of Chiara's old, meticulously farmed vines to shine bright.
This is the kind of Sangiovese that loves classic Italian fare -- I'm thinking slow-braised lamb shanks over polenta would be divine, but it would work equally well with a hearty Bolognese. My mouth is watering, so I must go eat : )
Josh Spurling
Owner, Operator, Wine Monger
Table Wine Asheville
