Caparzo Brunello di Montalcino 2021

Caparzo was founded in 1970. Elisabetta Gnudi Angelini purchased the property, including parcels of Montosoli called La Casa, in 1998. In 2015, her daughter Alessandra joined the company. Considerable investment was made over the past three decades, particularly replanting the vineyards. The classic, blended Brunello di Montalcino earns a spot on our Top 10 for its combination of quality and value in the superb 2021 harvest. It’s a blend of vineyards from four different terroirs around the denomination, representing the character of the entire territory. Fermentation in stainless steel tanks was followed by two years of aging in 5,000- to 8,000-liter Slavonian oak casks.

Tasting Note

There’s plenty of red fruit flavors of cherry, strawberry and raspberry, with hints of wood smoke, tobacco and iron. Firmly built, with vibrant acidity and a line of dusty tannins. This is elegant overall and super long. Best from 2029 through 2048. 15,000 cases made, 7,500 cases imported.—Bruce Sanderson