Ghiaie della Furba 2017 – Capezzana.
It is time for another Italian Bordeaux style red. For this review we are back in Tuscany, to be exactly in Carmignano. We are discussing the 2017 “Ghiaie della Furba” by Tenuta di Capezzana.
Earlier we reviewed their Barco Reale Carmignano (you can find this review here), mainly made out of the local darling Sangiovese, and with this wine the winery shows that they are also very comfortable working with typical French varietals.
About the Winery
The Bonacossi family plays a big role in the success and growth of the Capezzana winery, owning and developing the estate in the last century. A large portion of their vineyards (in total about ~100 hectares) is dedicated to Sangiovese but since decades they also planted and produced a number of French varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah.
This particular wine was born in 1979 from an idea of Ugo and Vittorio Contini Bonacossi, who where amongst the first Italians to produce a Bordeaux style blend. The first vineyard used, consisting of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot, was located on the gravelly alluvial soil of the Furba stream, from which it takes its name. In the ’90s changes where made to the blend which included the addition of Syrah.
About the Wine
Made out of Cabernet, Syrah and Merlot this wine ages for 18 months in oak barriques (using malolactic fermentation) and additional 12 months in the bottle.
The result is a wine with a deep ruby colour and a diverse nose that offers a wide range of fruity and spicy notes. On the palette you encounter a full body, with retained tannins and acidity. A wine with character, that works best when paired with some charcoal grilled meat. The fruit notes remain until the aftertaste, which is nicely build up and persistent. Especially when drinking it solo we recommend to give the wine some air first.
We happily award this Bordeaux inspired red with a 93/100 DWA Score. The wine can be bought at various retailers for a price around €30, –
We have also reviewed the following wines from Capezzana, learn more about them by clicking on the links:
Price: €30
Taste date: April 2022
Score: 93/100 DWA Score
Website: Capezzana