Castello Dei Rampolla Sammarco 2016

Sammarco is the original biodynamic Super-Tuscan. Although we tend to position this Cabernet powerhouse after names like Sassicaia, Solaia, and Ornellaia, Sammarco actually predated Ornellaia (1980) and boasts the same winemaking talent behind that “aia” trio—Giacomo Tachis. 

This is one of the pioneering Tuscan blends that privileges craftsmanship and quality, establishing its credentials absent the instruments of media and marketing. Family-owned and operated, Castello dei Rampolla pursues an artisanal approach that includes the practice of organic winemaking, hand selection of grapes, and cultivation of low yields.

Dense ruby-purple color. Intense, intriguing nose of high-class cigar tobacco intermixed with smoke, minerals, black currants, and vanilla. The palate is dense, medium- to full-bodied, with superb richness, purity, and overall harmony.

98 Points - Vinous

The 2016 Sammarco is a dense, flamboyant wine. Inky red fruit, spice, cedar, tobacco, menthol, and licorice are some of the notes that build in a statuesque Sammarco that dazzles from start to finish. Sammarco is translucent, sculpted, and full of character, a wine of stunning textural richness and intensity. All the elements are so well balanced. Rose petal, cedar, tobacco, and mint linger on the eternal finish. The 2016 is a magical wine that can be, surprisingly, enjoyed now or cellared for a number of years. Time in the glass brings out its energy and vertical drive. Sammarco is quite possibly the single greatest value in high-end Italian wine. Don't miss it.

97 Points - Wine Enthusiast

A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Sangiovese, this opens with earthy aromas of truffle, leather, game, cassis, and blue flower. Delicious and bursting with personality, the full-bodied palate doles out ripe black plum, fleshy black cherry, crushed black olive, and licorice. Velvety, fine-grained tannins provide support. 

96 Points - James Suckling

Plenty of currant and blackberry with some coffee and toasted oak on the nose. It's full-bodied with a dense palate and round, polished tannins that fold nicely into this young wine. It's very drinkable, even though it's structured and so serious. Cool in the end, Cabernet sauvignon, sangiovese and merlot. Unfiltered. This will age beautifully.