2018 Caiarossa

30% Syrah, 28% Cabernet Franc, 16% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, 7% Petit Verdot, 5% Sangiovese, 2% Alicante. Deep ruby. Full of plums and tobacco in equal measure. There is a spicy, mineral tone, and a leafy edge from the Cabernet Franc despite the richness of flavour. Bright, piercing acid on the palate that has real crunch. The smoothness comes in waves from seductively ripe and plummy fruit as well as sweet spice. There is a tarry richness that makes for a smoky back end. (TP)

This is extremely perfumed with violets, sage, lavender, currants and berries. Fresh and vivid. Medium-to full-bodied with super refined tannins and fruit. So subtle and refined. This is really long and gorgeous. Goes on for minutes. A change in style from past vintages and I like it. 30% syrah, 30% cabernet franc, 16% cabernet sauvignon, 12% merlot 7% petit verdot and 5% sangiovese. From organically grown grapes. So hard not to drink now, but better after 2023.

The personality of this estate has become better established over the past few years, and this is an enjoyable vintage. Complex and juicy, slate minerality, it has a seriously Mediterranean bouquet - meaning underbrush, dried herbs, raspberry puree, saffron, sage, aniseed. Rewards taking your time in the glass, because the flavour strands need a moment to unwind. Certified organic, and the long-term agroforestry project, with trees planted among the vineyards is the traditional way of planting here rather than a new initiative. Tuscan estate located in the Maremma and owned by the Albada family of Château Giscours, Jerome Poisson winemaker. A number of different soils and exposures that adds complexity, as do the seven different grape varieties, mix of Bordeaux and Italian varieties. 30% new oak, then back in concrete tanks for 4 months before release.