Arnaldo Caprai, Montefalco Rosso Riserva, Umbria, 1998

A blend of Sangiovese (70%) with equal parts of Merlot and Sagrantino, this stunning 1998 is still going very strong indeed. A stand out wine from the tasting, this is drinking beautifully now and according to Marco Caprai will easily reward another five years cellaring. Nearly two decades on, lush, primary red and black fruits dominate on the palate, while hints of undergrowth and bottle age are only just beginning to emerge. The tannins are poised, ripe and well structured, but have clearly softened and polymerised. Lovely acidity and a terrific finish make for a very complete and complex wine.