~ In this photo taken from the road leading away from the winery, you can see the grass on the roof of the new wine cellar ~
I have covered and written about Caprili extensively over the years at Tuscan Vines. Current family winemaker Giacomo Bartolommei was one of my original winemaker interviews and in addition to tasting many of his wines, I’ve also spent time with him tasting and exploring on his estate. Simply put, their wines are excellent and they show no signs of losing steam any time soon. In fact, I could easily argue that since Giacomo has taken over, the wines have gotten even better.
The Caprili estate spreads over an area of 58 hectares in the southwest territory of the Municipality of Montalcino on the hillside which slopes down towards the Orcia and Ombrone rivers. Of the total property, 15.5 hectares are covered with vines.
Sangiovese Grosso is cultivated on a total of 14.5 hectares for the production of Brunello and Rosso di Montalcino. Trebbiano, Malvasia and Vermentino are also planted on about 1 hectare of land for their Sant’Antimo Bianco. Today we’re focusing on their most recently released Rosso di Montalcino and it is spectacular.
~ Vineyards at Caprili dedicated to Sangiovese Gross for Brunello and Rosso di Montalcino ~
The 2016 Caprili Rosso di Montalcino is a pure, stunning Sangiovese. A beautiful violet color with bright reflections pulls the gaze of the taster right to the glass. As if without even an effort, a simple swirl lifts aromas of crushed berries, fresh flowers, gardenia blossom, cypress, leaf tobacco and lavender. It’s a symphony of aromas.
On the palate, the wine is no less compelling. Bright, juicy red fruit flavors or so alive, fresh and mouthwatering its as if they bounce around your mouth. Flavors of tobacco, spices and even soft mocha notes add complexity and length to this Rosso. Medium weight tannins and acids carry the structure amply and the versatility here allows for a wide range of food pairings. I also have to add that it was outstanding even without food. Bravo! 93 points. Great value under $20! Find this wine.
~ Simply outstanding ~
At the time I attended Benvenuto Brunello in January of 2018 as the Brunello 2013s were being released, the buzz around the room was about the 2016 Rossos. They were dynamite then. They are dynamite now. Do not miss out on these wines.
Salute!
