Caparzo Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany, Italy

Caparzo’s Brunello di Montalcino DOCG is a quintessential expression of Tuscany’s most revered appellation, capturing the elegance, structure, and longevity that define great Sangiovese. With vineyards spread across multiple terroirs in Montalcino, Caparzo has mastered the art of balance, ensuring that every vintage expresses both power and finesse. The 2019 vintage has already garnered critical acclaim for its purity of fruit, polished tannins, and remarkable aging potential, making it a standout in any cellar.

Product Details

• Appellation: Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Tuscany, Italy
• Varietal: 100% Sangiovese
• Alcohol: 14.5%
• Aging: 3 years in large oak barrels, plus 6 months in bottle
• Winery Location: Montalcino, Siena, Italy
• Drink Window: 2025–2040

Sensory Description

Deep ruby red with garnet reflections, this Brunello opens with an enticing bouquet of wild berries, red cherries, and fragrant florals, layered with graphite, star anise, and dried herbs. The palate is full-bodied yet refined, boasting a core of juicy Morello cherry and raspberry, interwoven with hints of cedar, tobacco, and orange zest. Silky tannins provide structure, while a vibrant acidity keeps the wine lively and fresh. The finish is long, elegant, and laced with notes of licorice and minerality, showcasing the wine’s aging potential.

Accolades & Awards

• 95 Points – James Suckling: “Pretty pure fruit with black cherry, blackberry, and light chocolate aromas. Full-bodied with polished tannins and a long, long finish.” (Best after 2027)
• 94 Points – Wine Advocate (Monica Larner): “Lively aromas of cherry cola, forest berry, and dried cranberry. Balanced and fresh with impressive dimension.” (Drink 2025–2037)
• 93+ Points – Ian D’Agata (Terroir Sense): “Silky yet youthfully structured with red cherry, licorice, and floral nuances. A long aging potential.” (Drink 2031–2040)
• 93 Points – Vinous (Eric Guido): “Aromatic and elegant, with wild strawberry, cedar, and spice. Silky and enveloping with a vibrant finish.” (Drink 2025–2035)
• 93 Points – Jeb Dunnuck (Audrey Frick): “A lovely bouquet of medicinal herbs, dried redcurrants, and roses. Medium-bodied with great purity and angular tannins.” (Drink 2024–2032)
• 92 Points – Decanter (Michaela Morris): “Fragrant with fennel, spearmint, and redcurrant. Plush and soft in texture with a fresh, zesty finish.” (Drink 2024–2032)

Winery Background

Founded in the late 20th century, Caparzo is one of the few Montalcino estates with vineyards spread across different slopes of the region, allowing for an intricate blending of microclimates and soil types. This diversity ensures consistency and complexity in every vintage. Their commitment to both tradition and innovation has earned them a place among the most respected Brunello producers, with wines served in renowned restaurants and international state dinners.

Serving Suggestions

This Brunello is best enjoyed at 60–64°F in a large, Burgundy-style glass to allow its aromatics to fully develop. It’s a dream pairing for Florentine steak, roast lamb, game meats, and wild mushroom tagliatelle. Aged cheeses like Pecorino Toscano also complement the wine’s structure and depth. While already accessible, decanting for one to two hours will enhance its complexity. For those with patience, cellaring for another decade or more will be well rewarded.