At a glance

Producer

Le Macchiole

Region

Tuscany, Italy

Grape variety

Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Syrah

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$65-$90

Tasting profile

Dark cherry, graphite, tobacco, cocoa, and Mediterranean herbs with robust structure

Evolution: Develops more complexity with secondary notes of leather and earth emerging over time

At peak: Elegant integration of fruit and tertiary notes with silky tannins and persistent finish

Structure

Acidity

Fresh and balanced

Tannins

Firm and well-integrated

Alcohol

13.5-14%

Aging potential

12-15 years depending on cellar conditions

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2026 to 2055

Optimal window

2023 to 2058

Current status

Approaching early maturity with fullness unfolding

Current condition

Vibrant tannins with focused acidity supporting the structure

The 2018 Paleo Rosso from Le Macchiole comes from a warm vintage that produced ripe yet balanced fruit. Its full-bodied, tannic structure built on Cabernet Franc and Syrah allows a long aging window. The wine typically requires 5+ years to soften its substantial tannins and reveal layered complexity—thus peak drinking starting mid-2020s and extending into early 2030s.

Food pairing

Grilled lamb, game meats, roasted vegetables, aged cheeses, and hearty Italian dishes like wild boar ragù.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1 hour) — To soften tannins and open aromatics

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Le Macchiole employs certified organic viticulture with limited intervention, dry farming to conserve water, energy-efficient cellar technology, and uses lightweight bottles for reduced packaging impact.

Le Macchiole is recognized for strong commitment to environmental stewardship; their organic certification and dry-farming reduce chemical use and water consumption. Energy-efficient operations paired with sustainable packaging lower overall footprint. The producer’s local sourcing limits transport emissions domestically, though international shipping remains an impact factor. Overall, the winery demonstrates above-average sustainability practices common in quality Tuscan estates.