Italian Red Wine from Tuscany

Discover Capricci, an Oak-Aged Sangiovese Focused Single Vineyard Red Wine

When you think of Italian red wines, one region stands out for its rich history, unparalleled quality, and its mastery in wine production—Tuscany. Known for its rolling hills, scenic vineyards, and medieval villages, Tuscany produces some of the most iconic wines in the world. From Chianti to Brunello di Montalcino, Tuscany has earned its reputation as the birthplace of fine Italian reds. Today, we invite you to explore one of Tuscany’s most exceptional red wines, Capricci, a Sangiovese-focused wine that embodies the essence of the Tuscan landscape, its people, and centuries of Italian winemaking tradition.

The Heart of Tuscany, A Land of Vineyards and Wine

Tuscany is often considered the “heart” of Italy, both geographically and culturally. Its vineyards are a product of centuries of winemaking tradition, deeply rooted in the landscape’s ancient soils, microclimates, and unique terroir. The region is home to many famed wine appellations, each with its distinct characteristics.

The most famous of these, Chianti, is known for its classic blend of Sangiovese and other local varieties. However, Tuscany is not only about Chianti; it is a treasure trove of unique wines, each one telling the story of its particular vineyard, soil, and climate. At Tenuta Le Mandorlaie, we take pride in producing wines that showcase the best of Tuscany, with a special focus on organic practices, sustainability, and respecting nature’s rhythm.

Our wine, Capricci, is a perfect reflection of this philosophy, made from the finest Sangiovese grapes grown on our single vineyard estate. It’s not just a wine; it’s a journey through the Maremma region, capturing its essence in every bottle.

Sangiovese, The Heart and Soul of Tuscan Wine

At the core of many of Tuscany’s greatest wines, including Capricci, lies Sangiovese, the region’s most iconic grape variety. Sangiovese is the backbone of wines like Chianti, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, and, of course, Brunello di Montalcino. Known for its bright acidity, medium tannin structure, and vibrant red fruit flavors, Sangiovese captures the essence of the Tuscan terroir.

But what makes Sangiovese so special? This grape thrives in the sun-drenched hills of Tuscany, where long growing seasons and well-drained soils allow the vine to express itself fully. The result is a wine that is both aromatic and complex, with flavors ranging from fresh cherries and plums to earthy notes of leather, tobacco, and herbs. These qualities are particularly enhanced by the unique terroir of our estate in Maremma, a coastal region of Tuscany known for its temperate climate and rich, fertile soils.

Our Capricci is crafted from Sangiovese grapes grown on vines that are over 70 years old, some of the oldest on the estate. These mature vines produce smaller, more concentrated berries, resulting in a wine with deep complexity and intensity of flavor. Capricci is a perfect example of what happens when you allow the grape to truly express itself, with minimal interference from modern winemaking practices.

Capricci, A Bold Expression of Sangiovese

Capricci is no ordinary wine; it is an expression of our commitment to quality and our love for the land that nurtures our vineyards. This wine is made from a selection of the finest Sangiovese grapes, handpicked at the peak of ripeness to ensure the best possible flavor profile.

Once harvested, the grapes are carefully sorted, destemmed, and fermented in stainless steel tanks. This fermentation process ensures the preservation of the grapes’ fresh fruit character and bright acidity. After fermentation, the wine is aged in oak barrels for 18 months, which gives Capricci its signature complexity, structure, and depth.

The Role of Oak in Aging Capricci

Oak aging is a traditional method that enhances a wine’s flavor and texture. For Capricci, we use a combination of French oak and small, finely toasted barrels to impart subtle flavors of vanilla, spice, and toasted wood. The oak aging process also softens the wine’s tannins, making it smoother and more rounded while allowing the wine to mature gracefully.

The time spent in oak allows Capricci to develop layers of flavor that evolve over time. While the initial impression is one of ripe red fruit—such as cherries, raspberries, and plums—the wine’s aging process adds secondary notes of tobacco, leather, and a touch of earthy complexity. The wine’s deep ruby color and balanced acidity make it an incredibly versatile wine, suitable for pairing with a variety of dishes, from hearty meats to delicate cheeses.

What to Expect from Capricci

When you pour a glass of Capricci, you are greeted by a rich, deep ruby-red color that promises a wine of substance and character. The nose is immediately expressive, with aromas of ripe cherries, red plums, and a hint of dried herbs, accompanied by the gentle influence of oak that adds a touch of spice and vanilla.

On the palate, Capricci is full-bodied yet remarkably balanced. The Sangiovese grape provides a backbone of acidity and tannins, while the oak aging contributes a smooth, velvety texture. The fruit flavors are rich and concentrated, yet the wine maintains a refreshing brightness, making it perfect for both sipping and food pairing.

The finish is long and persistent, with lingering notes of dark fruit, tobacco, and a delicate touch of chocolate. It’s a wine that invites you to take your time, savoring every sip as it evolves in the glass. As Capricci continues to age, its complexity will only increase, making it a wine that can be enjoyed both now and in the years to come.

The Terroir of Maremma, A Unique Influence on Capricci

One of the most important factors in producing exceptional wine is the terroir, or the unique combination of soil, climate, and geography that influences the character of the wine. At Tenuta Le Mandorlaie, our vineyards are located in Maremma, a region that sits along the southern coast of Tuscany, between the Mediterranean Sea and the rolling hills of the interior.

Maremma’s climate is influenced by its proximity to the sea, with cooling breezes that help moderate temperatures and prevent over-ripening of the grapes. The region’s soils are a mix of clay, limestone, and sandy deposits, providing excellent drainage and promoting the development of healthy, concentrated vines. These conditions are ideal for Sangiovese, allowing the grape to ripen slowly and evenly, developing complex flavors and vibrant acidity.

The combination of the unique terroir and the old vines at Tenuta Le Mandorlaie gives Capricci its distinctive personality. The wine is a true reflection of Maremma’s landscapes—both bold and elegant, with an earthy, organic quality that is characteristic of the region’s best wines.

Sustainable Practices at Tenuta Le Mandorlaie

At Tenuta Le Mandorlaie, we are deeply committed to sustainability and the preservation of our land for future generations. Our vineyards are organically farmed, using traditional methods that respect the natural environment. We believe that healthy, thriving ecosystems produce the best grapes, and we work hard to maintain the biodiversity of our estate.

We use no synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, instead relying on natural compost, cover crops, and organic treatments to keep the vines healthy. This approach ensures that the soil remains rich and fertile, helping to produce grapes that are full of flavor and character. Our commitment to organic farming extends beyond our vineyards to every aspect of our estate, including our olive groves, which provide the exceptional organic extra virgin olive oil for which we are also known.

Food Pairing with Capricci, A Perfect Match

One of the joys of drinking wine is discovering the perfect food pairing. Capricci, with its bold flavors and smooth texture, is incredibly versatile and can enhance a variety of dishes. Here are some of our favorite food pairings for Capricci:

• Grilled meats – The tannins in Capricci make it a natural match for grilled meats, especially steak, lamb, or sausages. The wine’s structure and acidity help to balance the richness of the meat.
• Aged cheeses – Try Capricci with a selection of aged cheeses, such as Pecorino, Parmigiano-Reggiano, or a mature Gouda. The wine’s fruit and oak flavors complement the creamy, salty flavors of the cheese.
• Tuscan cuisine – As a true Tuscan wine, Capricci pairs wonderfully with traditional Italian dishes such as pappardelle with wild boar ragu, ribollita (Tuscan vegetable soup), or bistecca alla fiorentina (Florentine steak).
• Mushroom-based dishes – The earthy notes in Capricci make it an ideal companion for dishes featuring mushrooms, such as risotto ai funghi porcini or a wild mushroom ragù.

Capricci, A Wine for Every Occasion

Capricci is a wine that can be enjoyed in many settings, whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply unwinding after a long day. Its complexity and depth make it a wine worth savoring, but it is also incredibly approachable for those who appreciate a well-crafted red wine.

As the wine continues to evolve with age, it will develop even more layers of flavor and complexity. We recommend aging Capricci for several years to fully appreciate its potential. However, it’s equally delicious when enjoyed young, showcasing the bright fruit flavors and subtle oak influence.

Capricci is more than just a bottle of wine it’s a true expression of Tuscany, its terroir, and our dedication to crafting wines that reflect the beauty and richness of this remarkable land. With its deep roots in Sangiovese, a carefully balanced oak aging process, and the influence of the Maremma region’s unique terroir, Capricci is a wine that captures the spirit of Tuscany in every sip.

We invite you to experience Capricci for yourself, and to discover why this wine is fast becoming one of the standout examples of Italian red wine. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates the finer things in life, Capricci promises to deliver an unforgettable tasting experience.

Capricci, Our IGT Toscana Wine