d'Alceo (2014)
SommeliAI Insights
A rich and elegant Tuscan red with deep flavors of black currant, cherry, and subtle tobacco notes.
About this wine
The 2014 d'Alceo from Castello dei Rampolla is a blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Petit Verdot, offering a deep purple color and a complex bouquet of black currant, juicy black cherry, and subtle tobacco. On the palate, it delivers flavors of cassis, licorice, and hints of mint, all framed by fine-grained tannins and vibrant acidity. This wine is known for its elegance and depth, reflecting the unique character of its Tuscan vineyard. The 2014 vintage, though challenging, resulted in a wine that balances power and finesse, making it enjoyable now and promising further complexity with age. With a production of only 6,200 bottles, this wine is a testament to the estate's dedication to quality.
About the grape
In the 1980s, Castello dei Rampolla was among the first in Tuscany to plant Cabernet Sauvignon, blending it with Sangiovese to create what became known as Super Tuscan wines. The 2014 d'Alceo is composed of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Petit Verdot. The estate's vineyards are cultivated biodynamically, ensuring the grapes express the unique character of the land.
Quick facts
- 🍇 The 2014 d'Alceo is a blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Petit Verdot, showcasing a harmonious combination of these two grape varieties.
- 🏆 This vintage received high praise from critics, including a 95-point rating from Wine Enthusiast, highlighting its elegance and complexity.
- 🍷 The wine exhibits deep purple hues and offers aromas of espresso, sweet melted licorice, black currant jam, tobacco, and toasty oak.
- 🌱 Castello dei Rampolla practices biodynamic agriculture, emphasizing natural cycles and soil biodiversity, which contributes to the wine's unique character.
- 🍾 Due to a challenging vintage, production was significantly reduced, with only 6,200 bottles produced in 2014, enhancing its rarity and desirability.
Palate profile
Producer
Castello dei Rampolla, located in Panzano in Chianti, Italy, has been owned by the Di Napoli family since 1739. In 1965, Alceo di Napoli Rampolla inherited the estate and, inspired by his friend Giacomo Tachis, began producing Chianti Classico in 1975. In 1980, they introduced 'Sammarco,' a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese, marking a significant innovation in the region. The winery transitioned to biodynamic farming in 1994, emphasizing sustainable practices. Today, the estate is managed by Alceo's children, Luca and Maurizia, who continue to uphold their father's pioneering vision.
