Belcompare 2016 Umbria IGT - Arnaldo Caprai

Belcompare 2016 – Arnaldo Caprai

Arnaldo Caprai is the winery that more than any other has taken Sagrantino di Montefalco to the world, thanks to the work of Marco Caprai and a long research partnership with the University of Milan in the vineyards. Alongside its great Sagrantinos, the Umbrian estate also makes a few wines from international varieties; Belcompare is its pure Merlot.

The wine comes from the estate's vineyards in the Montefalco area and gets serious ageing: about two years in barrique, followed by several months in bottle before release.

2016 was a balanced vintage in Central Italy, with good day-night temperature swings and steady ripening. In the glass it is deep ruby, with ripe morello cherry and plum, spice, herbs and a hint of leather; the palate is full and enveloping, with fine-grained tannins and good freshness. A serious Umbrian Merlot, less known than the house Sagrantinos but deeply satisfying. With roasts, lamb or aged cheeses.

At a glance: Merlot 100% · 14.5% ABV · 0.75 l · Arnaldo Caprai, Montefalco