Yes, another Tuscan tasting.
Thanks to the staff of the Spirited Gourmet, and Sophie Daniels of Opici Imports, for hosting this tasting. Carpineto is a large producer with an extensive range, but this tasting gave a pretty good snapshot about what their wines are about, more or less. Although this isn't one of Tuscany's elite wineries, Carpineto does make some pretty respectable wines, including their Chianti Classico and Vino Nobile Riservas, and their Vin Santo.
In general, there seemed to be a good balance between traditional and modern styles with these offerings. While this producer certainly makes use of Cabernet Sauvignon and other international varieties, none of the wines were excessively ripe and/or oaky.
2010 Dogajolo Bianco IGT Toscana
A blend of Chardonnay, Grechetto, Sauvignon Blanc, and Gewürztraminer. Light to medium-bodied, moderately acidic, soft, bone dry, with notes of hay, apples, and citrus fruits. Decent/good. Of course, dry white wine is not Tuscany's strongest point. $11.
2010 Dogajolo Rosso IGT Toscana
Mostly Sangiovese, with some Cabernet Sauvingon and other varieties blended in. Light to medium-bodied, moderately acidic, with cherry, berry, and lightly spicy notes. Good; rather basic but pleasant everyday red. $11.
2006 Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva
80% Sangiovese; the rest Canaiolo and other varieties. Medium-bodied, moderately acidic/structured; smooth, with notes of red fruits, earth, and some woodsy elements. Still a little tight, though. Very good. $22.
2005 Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG Riserva
70% Sangiovese; the rest a blend of Canaiolo and other varieties. Medium-bodied, elegant, well balanced, with cherry, mixed berry, floral, and autumn leaf notes. Very good. $24.
2005 Cabernet Sauvignon “Farnito” IGT Toscana
Medium-bodied, elegant, moderately tannic, with notes of cherries, crème de cassis, earth, spices, and light oak. Somewhat hard finish, though. Good overall, but not a standout. $32.
1992 Vin Santo del Chianti Classico DOC “Farnito”
70% Trebbiano Toscano and Malvasia; the other 30% are other white grapes. From 500 ml bottle. Oxidative nose. Lightly to moderately viscous, well balanced, with caramel, nutty, sbaking spice, and orange oil notes. Very good+. $56.