Isole e Olena Wine Dinner
Schedule
Wed, 08 Oct, 2025 at 06:00 pm
UTC-04:00Location
108 South Street SE, Ste 101, Leesburg, VA, United States, Virginia 20175 | Leesburg, VA
On Wednesday, October 8 at 6:00 PM, join us for a guided culinary journey through the vineyards of Chianti Classico, expressed through the estate’s exceptional wines and paired with a multi-course Italian tasting menu. This is a rare opportunity to discover the elegance and depth of Isole e Olena across five distinct wines, including the legendary Cepparello.
The Legacy of Isole e Olena
The story of Isole e Olena begins in the rolling hills between Florence and Siena, in the heart of the Chianti Classico region. In the 1950s, two neighboring hamlets—Isole and Olena—were combined into a single estate, and in 1956, the De Marchi family acquired the property. But it was in the 1970s, when Paolo De Marchi took over winemaking, that the estate’s reputation began to ascend toward greatness.
Paolo, born into a winemaking family in Piedmont and trained in both Italy and abroad, brought a new vision to the estate: to produce wines that were expressive, precise, and reflective of Tuscany’s true potential. At a time when the region was still focused on volume over quality, Paolo reduced yields, replanted vines, and invested in modern cellar practices—all while maintaining respect for tradition and terroir.
His pioneering spirit gave rise to one of Italy’s most celebrated wines, Cepparello, a 100% Sangiovese Super Tuscan first released in 1980. At a time when it was virtually unthinkable to bottle Sangiovese outside of the Chianti regulations, Cepparello helped reshape the global perception of Tuscan wine.
Today, Isole e Olena stands as a benchmark producer—respected worldwide for wines of purity, balance, and depth. The estate continues under Paolo’s legacy, staying true to its values while continuing to evolve.
Wine Dinner Menu
Five wines. Five courses. One unforgettable evening.
Welcome Aperitivo
Prosecco Millesimato – Le Contesse
A refined, crisp vintage Prosecco to begin the evening with elegance and freshness—a toast to Italian conviviality.
Antipasto
Bruschetta with Burrata, Porchetta & Pomodorini
Toasted rustic bread layered with creamy burrata, savory porchetta, and sweet cherry tomatoes.
Paired with: Isole e Olena Chardonnay Collezione Privata 2021
Bright citrus and golden apple with subtle oak spice—this Chardonnay elevates the savory richness of the starter.
Primo Piatto
Rigatoni all’Amatriciana with Guanciale di Cinta Senese
A bold Roman classic with Tuscan guanciale, rich tomato, and perfectly al dente rigatoni.
Paired with: Isole e Olena Chianti Classico 2020
Red cherry, dried herbs, and a firm structure—its brisk acidity and earthy tones bring out the best in the sauce and guanciale.
Secondo Piatto
Australian Grade 5 Lamb Chop with Roasted Potatoes
Tender, marbled lamb grilled to perfection, paired with rosemary‑roasted potatoes.
Paired with: Cepparello 2020
The estate’s flagship 100 % Sangiovese, deep and complex—ripe cherry, balsamic herbs, tobacco, polished tannins. A majestic wine for a grand dish.
Formaggi e Vino
Assorted Italian Cheese Selection
A curated selection of artisanal cheeses to conclude the dinner.
Paired with: Isole e Olena Cabernet Sauvignon 2020
Dark fruit, graphite, spice—rich, structured, and the perfect companion to cheese and conversation.
$150++ per person
Includes the aperitivo, all wine pairings, and the full five‑course dinner.
Location: GVINO Wine Bar
Date & Time: Wednesday, October 8 | 6:00 PM
Reserve your place today using the link in the first comment.
Seating is limited to ensure an intimate, immersive evening. We encourage early registration to ensure you do not miss this celebration of food, wine, and Tuscan legacy.
We look forward to sharing this special evening with you, steeped in fine wines, exquisite food, and warm company.
Where is it happening?
108 South Street SE, Ste 101, Leesburg, VA, United States, Virginia 20175Event Location & Nearby Stays: