Caiarossa 2019

96 pts, James Suckling

Caiarossa's 2019 vintage, an IGT Toscana Rosso blend of Syrah, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Sangiovese, and Grenache, grown biodynamically on the estate's Tuscan hillsides. 2019 was one of the most homogeneous, high quality vintages the estate has seen in recent years, with average summer temperatures, cooler nights, and just enough rain to avoid water stress. Each parcel was harvested by hand, fermented separately in concrete and wood, then blended after malolactic fermentation and aged 14 months in French oak.

Expect ripe black plums, blueberries, and chocolate, with mocha, sweet spice, dried lavender, and a touch of oyster shell. Full bodied, layered, and polished, with velvety tannins and a creamy finish. James Suckling scored it 96 points, matching the score from The Wine Independent, with Robert Parker close behind at 95. Open it with something rich, and give it time to breathe.