At a glance

Producer

Caparzo

Region

Brunello di Montalcino, Tuscany, Italy

Grape variety

Sangiovese

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$45-$65

Tasting profile

Ripe cherry and plum fruit with hints of tobacco, leather, and dried herbs. Earthy minerality with notes of vanilla and spice from oak aging.

Evolution: Fruit notes will deepen into dried fruit and forest floor; tannins soften further while acidity keeps structure.

At peak: Fully integrated with plush texture, complex tertiary aromatics of truffle, cedar, and balsamic.

Structure

Acidity

High, balanced and refreshing

Tannins

Medium to High, well-integrated

Alcohol

14.0-14.5%

Aging potential

Excellent aging potential of 15-20 years or more from vintage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2022 to 2036

Optimal window

2018 to 2039

Current status

Drinking well, approaching peak

Current condition

The wine is showing good maturity with developed tertiary aromas while retaining fresh fruit and acidity.

The 2011 vintage was a very good year in Montalcino with a warm growing season allowing full ripeness and balanced tannins. The Vigna La Casa vineyard produces fruit with rich concentration and acidity, lending itself to extended cellaring well beyond a decade. The wine has now entered its optimal drinking window, where structure and complexity harmonize.

Food pairing

Pairs excellently with Tuscan roasted meats, grilled lamb, aged pecorino cheese, wild mushroom risotto, and game dishes.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — Helps soften tannins and open complex aromatics for a smoother drinking experience.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Caparzo employs integrated pest management, responsible water usage, soil conservation, and uses lightweight bottles to reduce packaging impact.

Caparzo has demonstrated commitment to sustainability focusing on environmental stewardship and energy efficiency, though they do not hold formal organic or biodynamic certifications yet. Efforts towards water conservation and reduced packaging weight help lower their environmental impact. Transportation emissions are typical for an internationally distributed Italian wine.