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| ~ Autumn comes to Caprai’s Vineyards ~ |
Founded in 1971 by Patriarch Arnaldo Caprai, what was once a small 12.5 acre estate is now one of the largest in Montefalco. Today the Arnaldo Caprai winery encompasses over 370 acres including forest, olive groves and wilderness. 220 acres remain devoted to premium wine production.
Since 1988, Marco Caprai has run the family business and under his direction, the estate has become certified biodynamic and organic, receiving no less than twelve accreditations granted to the winery.
Since 1988, Marco Caprai has run the family business and under his direction, the estate has become certified biodynamic and organic, receiving no less than twelve accreditations granted to the winery.
I’ve written a lot about Montefalco on these pages, have met Marco and covered his wines for years. He’s engaging and driven and the his commitment to quality is unwavering.
While Caprai produces its share of premium Sagrantino, the workhorse red of the region which is often overlooked is the humble Rosso di Montefalco. Overlook it at your peril, for the wines often represent great value.
We’ve covered more recent vintages of Caprai’s Rosso and today we’re reaching back a bit to review the 2009 Montefalco Rosso.
The 2009 is a brilliant shimmering ruby to violet in the glass. We chose not to decant the wine but opened it about 30 minutes prior to dinner and “played” with a small amount in the glass. The aromas are easily coaxed and feature ripe cherry, pipe tobacco, spices and a hint of chocolate.
On the palate, the wine is fleshy and polished. There’s no rusticity here. Round flavors of vanilla, red plums, spice and dusty minerals are evident on the palate and assert themselves with good persistence. Medium bodied, with only moderate tannic grip, this is ready to drink now. Paired with fennel rubbed, grilled pork chops, this was very tasty and it’s versatility in matching with food is a plus. Around $17-$22 and a better value at the lower end. 88 points.
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| ~ The 2009 is 70% Sangiovese, 15% Sagrantino and 15% Merlot ~ |
Avanti!
John, Thank you for continuing to write on the wines from Montefalco. My experience has been that few people are aware of the region and their wines. The Montefalco Rossos, and specifically the one you reviewed here, are very good values. Of course, the Sagrantino wines from Montefalco are also excellent, albeit at a higher price point. I am fortunate to have a good friend that whenever he and his wife come to dinner they bring a wine from Montefalco (often the one you reviewed here) and it is always enjoyed that night at dinner.
Having been to Montefalco a couple of times, I can share with all that Montefalco and surrounding towns (Bevagna and Assisi to name two) are very enjoyable to visit.
Joe, I agree that these wines are very good values. Many come in at under $20 and offer quite the interesting experience and complexity at that price point. I also love Sagrantino for its brawn. It's a winter wine or a steak wine in my house. Just had a great example last night that I'll be posting on later in the week.
Cheers!