2013 Caparzo Brunello di Montalcino 750 ml

Wine Advocate’s “Go-To Producer”

Our FIRST offer of a 2013 Brunello di Montalcino marks the return of our highest-rated and most-anticipated bottlings — Caparzo. In an era when sub-$50 Brunellos are a rarity, Caparzo delivers practically unheard-of quality for under $30. The 2013 Caparzo earned a glowing 93 points from James Suckling, as well as 92 points from Wine Advocate, which, like thousands of Wine Access clients, considers it one of Brunello’s “go-to producers.” Even as the Euro steadily climbs against the dollar, we negotiated hard and are excited to offer the higher-scoring 2013 Caparzo at the same price as the previous vintage — $29.99 per bottle.

Jancis Robinson MW describes Tuscany’s 2013 vintage as: “a promising vintage on the whole, with the wines of Montalcino expected to be exceptional.” James Suckling rates it better than 2012, and only behind the great 2010s in recent history. Our own experience at the annual Brunello Consorzio tasting in NYC confirmed that many producers turned out 2013s that surpass their 2012s in quality — and on a case-by-case basis, we’ll only offer the better 2013s from those producers.

In other words, the winery has simply thrived in the diligent hands of the delightful Elisabetta Gnudi Angelini, who also owns the landmark Altesino estate.

2013 was a vintage that Wine Enthusiast lauded for its “energy, elegance, and age-worthy structure,” traits that match perfectly with Wine Advocate’s assessment of the 2013 Caparzo, which they praised as “elegant and graceful” and perfect for short-term enjoyment or a stint in the cellar.

Aged in large Slavonian oak casks according to Brunello tradition, the Caparzo boasts tons of bright cherry freshness, grilled herbs, and a smoky bass note: a perfect wine for pasta, grilled sausages, or steak.

Jonathan Cristaldi

Editor-in-Chief, Wine Access

Contributing Writer, Food & Wine