Caprai’s top wine, the Sagrantino di Montefalco 25 Anni, was first released in 1993 to commemorate the estate’s 25th anniversary. It has since gone on to become one of Italy’s most recognized wines. The 25 Anni starts as a vineyard selection of the finest fruit at harvest, followed by a second selection in the cellar. Essentially the 25 Anni represents the finest barrels of Sagrantino the estate has produced in a given year. The wine undergoes malolactic fermentation in French oak and sees approximately 50-60% new barrels, depending on the vintage. The 1998 Sagrantino di Montefalco 25 Anni has developed pretty notes of menthol, tar and spices that add complexity to a rich core of fruit. The tannins remain on the firm side, and one day in the not too distant future they will likely win the battle for domination in the wine’s balance. For today, though, the 1998 is in a beautiful spot to deliver considerable pleasure. -Antonio Galloni

Big, juicy red (almost raw), with loads of berry and toasted oak. Full-bodied and chewy, with lots of oak and fruit. A wine with extract, needing time in the bottle.