2024 Caposaldo Chianti ($12.99)
The name Caposaldo translates to “benchmark” in Italian—a bold claim that the wine backs up with a legendary backstory.
If you look closely at the label, you'll spot golden horse heads. These pay tribute to Caposaldo, a historic Roman racing horse favored by Emperor Nero. By conquering Rome’s Circus Maximus, the champion horse became the ultimate standard of excellence, a quality that Caposaldo wines aim to replicate in every bottle.
In the Chianti DOCG, every bottle must contain a minimum of 70% Sangiovese grapes. The website suggests that Caposaldo uses 75% Sangiovese, along with Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon in this wine. These grapes are handpicked on the rolling hillside vineyards of Tuscany, Italy, specifically spanning across the hilly provinces of Arezzo and Siena.
The winery uses stainless steel tanks for fermentation. Then, 30 percent of the wine is separated to age for six months inside traditional oak vats before blending and bottling.
This 2024 Caposaldo Chianti is a medium-ruby color with delicate aromas of dark fruit. On the palate, this medium-full-bodied Chianti has rich flavors of black cherry, blackberry and plum. It has medium acidity and medium-high tannin. It finishes easy.
This 2024 Caposaldo Chianti is a great Italian wine that will pair well with most Italian dishes. But, it’s also great all by itself! And, at this price, it’s a great fit as this week’s Behind the Cork™ Wine of the Week. Cheers!
Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received this sample at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Media Sample Provided by Caposaldo via Kobrand Wine and Spirits