Caprili Brunello di Montalcino 2018

Tuscany, Italy

Vinous 92 points! Wine Advocate 94! Wine Spectator 93! Kerin O’Keefe 96 points!

Caprili Brunello di Montalcino is a beautiful red wine gem from the excellent 2018 vintage. Caprili is a Brunello estate in the southwestern sector of the Montalcino appellation near the hamlet of Tavernelle. They are considered one of the old guard of Montalcino producers as they were established in 1965 when they split off from the famous Pieve Santa Restituta estate. At that time there were fewer than 20 estates, and there are no well over 200! The wines are staunchly traditional, with long macerations followed by at least three years in cask. Caprili offers great value for world-class Brunello.

“Exotic and spicy from the first tilt of the glass, the 2018 Brunello di Montalcino wafts up with a bouquet of sweet herbal tones, woodland berries and wet stones. It’s round and supple in feel, as ripe strawberry and red plum are complemented by hints of autumnal spice. This finishes only lightly structured, almost transparent in feel, pinching at the cheeks with silty tannins, as nuances of clove and dried black cherries slowly fade. The 2018, an incredibly pretty yet delicate Brunello from Caprilli, is sure to win a lot of hearts.”—Vinous, 92 points!

“All about finesse and flavor, this stunner opens with quintessential aromas of classically crafted Brunello including violet, perfumed berry, new leather and forest floor that mingle with eucalyptus notes. It dances across the palate, offering juicy red cherry, orange zest, star anise and saline before a white almond close. Lithe tannins and fresh acidity keep it elegant and bright. Delicious and already approachable, it will age well for another decade or more. Drink 2023–2033.”--Kerin O’Keefe, 96 points!

Caprili Brunello di Montalcino is perfect with roast beef, osso buco, rich vegetarian dishes, and aged cheeses.