INSIDER'S PICK: 2022 TENUTA DI CAPEZZANA 'BARCO REALE' DI CARMIGNANO (Vinous 91pts)-$22.99

The Carmignano region is as historically important and prestigious in Tuscany as Chianti and Montalcino, but because of the small size is probably the least 'famous' to consumers. The area was championed by the Medici family throughout the Renaissance, and was one of four areas in Tuscany identified in a 1716 edict by Grand Duke Cosimo for producing superior quality wines (an early effort into what became their DOC/DOCG system). The connection to the worldly Medici family also brought wines and winemakers from across Europe to this area, which led to introducing Bordeaux varieties Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc into the allowed blends with Sangiovese and other local varieties. They are the original 'Super Tuscan', with much of their post-phylloxera plantings coming from famous growths like Lafite -Rothchild. Post-World War II, Capezzana and the Bonacossi family have been the leaders in re-establishing the greatness of Carmignano, with their top wines consistently looked at as the very best of the region. They also helped to establish the 'Barco Reale' level of wines, an entry level DOC that still shows off the unique regional character but built to be more approachable (think the Rosso di Montalcino to Brunello di Montalcino comparison). Primarily Sangiovese with varying amounts of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Canaiolo, this sees very little oak aging but has savory red fruits and tobacco all over the nose, and the palate has tannic structure for dayyyyys. The bright natural higher toned red fruits of Sangiovese are on full display and comes across distinctly Tuscan, but the Bordeaux influence definitely leaves a mark. This doesn't need the cellar time of its bigger brothers but decanting and some patience definitely helps bring out the wow factor.

---