Avignonesi-Capannelle 50/50 2019

The Avignonesi & Capannelle 2019 50 & 50 is a celebrated blend of equal parts Merlot and Sangiovese. The Merlot comes from the Avignonesi estate and Capannelle produces the Sangiovese in this all-Tuscan partnership that was kicked off in 1988. In fact, they claim to be one of the oldest joint ventures of this kind anywhere in the world of wine. This shows dark fruit concentration, blackberry preserves, spice and sweet tobacco. It is texturally rich thanks to its abundant fruit weight and softness.

The subtle savoriness with some orange zest and baking spices give complexity to the steely, mineral nose. Full-bodied on the palate highlighted by its immaculate texture with firm, fine-grained tannins. Long, nicely savory and mineral finish to close.

Plum, black cherry, chocolate and spice flavors hold court in this dense red. This is lively and firm, a touch austere even, with fine persistence and a solid core of fruit. This should come out of its shell in the next year or two. Merlot and Sangiovese. Best from 2025 through 2040.