2013 Chianti Classico

My most recent visit to Rampolla was one of the most memorable, as I had a chance to taste every vintage of Sammarco back to 1981. We will publish notes from that vertical soon. In the meantime, Rampolla fans will find much to admire in these current releases. Luca di Napoli describes 2013 as a warm year, but without excessive heat, that resulted in grapes with thick skins. Rain arrived towards the end of August and early September, which is a bit later than normal. The first two wines Rampolla has released from 2013 are quite intense. In 2011, the key was picking early, as the season precocious and dry the whole year. The two 2011 flagships - Sammarco and d'Alceo - have shut down hard since I tasted them just before bottling. That is hardly a surprise, given how structured these wines can be. Bottles opened today will only show a fraction of their potential. Where possible, a bit of patience is advised.