2019 Carpineto - Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG Riserva (750ml)

Tuscany's noblest wine — from one of its most consistent and respected producers.

Founded in 1967, Carpineto is widely regarded as one of the quality leaders on the Italian winemaking landscape, built on a philosophy of marrying tradition with innovation. About 65% of their production consists of Riserva wines aged three or more years before release — and Carpineto typically ages their reds six to twelve months longer than DOCG minimums require, keeping at least three consecutive vintages in their cellars at any given time. 

The Riserva is made from Sangiovese (Prugnolo Gentile) — the local name for this noble clone in Montepulciano — aged two years in large 5,500-liter Slavonian oval oak barrels with a portion in French oak, then further cellared before release. 

The 2019 shows a fresh, earthy, and savory nose of dark ripe berry, dark fruits, and clove spice, with very nice replays on the dry, medium-full bodied palate, supported by juicy acidity and big, structured tannins. Long, earthy, clove, and savory finish.  Brilliant ruby red tending to garnet, with an ethereal and elegant bouquet of violet and wood, a dry and harmonic palate, and a velvety, long finish. 

Stylistically poised between Chianti Classico's finesse and Brunello di Montalcino's power — and one of Italy's great cellar values.