Clandestine Chianti from Caparsa
How is Caparsa not more famous? It’s a producer doing everything right in Chianti, and one of our absolute favorites.
They are located in Radda, for many drinkers the best village in Chianti, known for its high-energy wines with gushing red fruit. If you’re familiar with Montevertine, that’s Radda.
Their farming is very conscientious and all organic (certified). Their work in the cellar is natural and traditional. They make Chianti from 100% Sangiovese, employing native yeast fermentation, and aging the wines in large traditional casks.
And also in a bottle! We first came across the producer – some 15 years ago now – because we noticed that you could buy some bottles with quite a bit of bottle age. The tradition has lasted to this day, and we are thrilled to have wines going back to 2016 – that legendary Tuscan vintage – to offer today.
And yes, after 15 years of drinking these wines, and Caparsa is still not famous. Even journalists have taken note, with Antonio Galloni describing himself as “blown away” when he visited there. You’d think that the incredibly charming hand-drawn bottle labels would at least draw some attention!
But no, none of this has yet penetrated the wider wine-drinking public. Oh well. It does mean that these fabulous wines have maintained very enticing pricing.
Caparsa Chianti Classico 2020 - $44.99
"The 2020 Chianti Classico is one of the standouts of this vintage. Dark cherry, plum, spice, leather, menthol and licorice are all amplified in this decidedly potent Chianti Classico. In 2020, the Caparsa Chianti Classico is a bit broader than it usually is, but its balance is impeccable. The straight Chianti Classico is the humblest wine in the range, but in 2020 it is not too far behind the more 'important' wines, if at all! Don't miss it. 93pts" -Antonio Galloni,Vinous
Caparsa Chianti Classico Riserva Caparsino 2017 - $64.99
"The 2017 Chianti Classico Riserva Caparsino is gorgeous, but it also needs at least a few years in the cellar to be at its best. Bright acids lend energy to this super-classic, structured Riserva. Deceptively light in structure, the 2017 packs a good deal of punch. Dried herbs, cedar, leather, tobacco and mint hint as to how the Riserva will develop in bottle.94 pts" -Antonio Galloni,Vinous
Caparsa Chianti Classico Riserva Doccio Mateo 2016 - $69.99
"The 2016 Chianti Classico Riserva Doccio a Matteo is powerful and deep, with tons of intensity and structure. High- toned aromatics add character along with an element of rusticity that nevertheless works quite well here. Macerated cherry, plum, leather, cloves, menthol and coffee all develop with time. A dollop of Colorino contributes further shades of nuance and complexity. The Doccio a Matteo is a compelling wine done in a decidedly old-school leaning style. 94pts" -Antonio Galloni,Vinous
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