2019 Caiarossa

Harvested slightly later than usual, 6–30 September. A blend of 26% Syrah, 24% Cabernet Franc, 23% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Petit Verdot, 4% Sangiovese and 2% Grenache. Peppery with red-cherry fruit and oily brambles, there is a high-toned note very typical of Tuscan reds. The tannins are chalky, softening to a lightly powdery texture with positively zesty acidity set against fleshy red fruits. Hints of darker plum tones come through on the finish. Ample power but matched by freshness. (TP)

Everything about this wine is seamless. It cannot shake off its French mould, but this goes further than just imitation. Gorgeous nose of oak, black fruit and cassis building a real unity. Velvet-like, cool and supple on the palate and effortlessly elegant while generous too. Stony, mineral fruit on the finish. This vintage comes close to the most prestigious of Bolgheri at a far more advantageous price tag. Caiarossa shines a light on the unjustly unknown terroir of Riparbella. Keep this at least for another year for it to show its potential. (WS)

An excellent vintage of Caiarossa, with creamy raspberry fruits and plenty of sappy tannins that give definition, together with higher acidity redcurrant fruit shot through with spiced rosemary, smoked earth and underbrush for Tuscan character, reflecting that 2019 is an excellent vintage across the region, both generous and balanced. Located in the Maremma and owned by the Albada family of Château Giscours, Axel Marchal consultant, Jerome Poisson winemaker across Giscours and Caiarossa - although importantly they have strengthened the local team also with cellar master Marco Lipparini and Vineyard Manager Francesco Villa. Certified organic, each variety is vinified separately in concrete and wooden tanks using only natural yeasts.