Here is a wine that embodies a philosophy I have followed for years: always buy the entry-level wine from top producers. Caparsa is one of the premiere estates in Chianti and arguably one of the best in all of Tuscany. While their Rosso di Caparsa is their entry-level red, it is an "advanced wine" that exhibits so much character at such a fair price.
Much of Caparsa's success can be attributed to the dedication of proprietor Paolo Cianferoni.
"Paolo Cianferoni and his family craft deep, soulful wines loaded with character," says Antonio Galloni of Vinous Media.
Importer Jay Murrie of Piedmont Wine Imports gave me a sample last week, and right when I pulled the cork, I knew I was getting into something special. It smelled of minty red cherry, wild raspberry, leather, forest floor, sage, and balsam. I poured myself a glass, and it was just as invigorating on the palate with medium-bodied freshness and perfectly integrated acidity and tannins.
If you buy a solid six-pack, I'll knock the price down to $22.99/bottle, over 20% off the regular price.
Anything less, and it's $25.99/bottle, still over 20% off the regular price of $28.99.
The joyful Paolo Cianferoni (on the right) with his son Federico.
The picture above kind of says it all. Isn't this who you want making your wine? Someone filled with joy, who is passionate about the quality of their wines and equally caring for the land from which they come? I sure do, and Paolo, his wife Gianna, and their 5 children work their butts off to achieve both goals.
Established in 1965 in the rolling hills of Radda in Chianti, these are some of the "holiest grounds" for Sangiovese production. Paolo has managed the estate since 1982, and in the past 40+ years, he has gained organic certification and implemented regenerative farming to improve soil and vine health.
It's hard work for sure, but it seems to be paying off, as Caparsa is now recognized as one of the top 2 or 3 producers in the Chianti Classico DOCG. Their Rosso di Caparsa is made from 15-20-year-old Sangiovese that will eventually go into their Chianti Classicos. It is an excellent bottle of wine that shows traditional Old World character and style.
It's an inspired and inspiring bottle of wine, and I could say a lot more about it, but I think you get the point. For lovers of traditional Tuscan reds, this is a must have.
Josh Spurling
Owner, Operator, Wine Monger
Table Wine Asheville
