Released in magnums, the Il Carnasciale 2017 Il Caberlot is a dark, extracted and savory expression. My sample was packaged in a regular 750-milliliter bottle and was marked with the word "Sommelleria" on the front label. Caberlot is an almost mythical varietal (that borrows from Cabernet Franc and Merlot) that in this vintage delivers aromas that strongly recall Cabernet Franc. The Merlot component is less evident, especially considering the very hot and dry 2017 growing season. Despite the robust and intense character of the bouquet, where dried blackberry, plum, spice and cedar smoke abound, the wine is more streamlined and lean than expected. This is true of many wines from this vintage. That vintage intensity has been intentionally reined back in an effort to achieve more balanced results. There are pretty dusty shadings on the finish.
James Suckling (95)
Lots of spicy and herbal fruit character with dried flowers and berries, such as raspberries and blueberries. Medium-to full-bodied with fine tannins that are tight and focused. Succulent, flavorful finish. Delicious now, but needs two to three years to come together.
BOW (8.50)
Jancis Robinson (17.50)
100% Caberlot. Blackish crimson. Gorgeous, luxurious and fresh nose of blackberry and oak. Plenty of oak and blueberry and blackberry on the palate but with a strikingly elegant palate weight. The most Pinot Noir-esque wine from non-Pinot Noir in the whole of Italy and from the boiling hot 2017. The result of skill and terroir. Super-seductive.
Vinous (97)
The 2017 Il Caberlot (Magnum) is so impressive. More than anything else, I am struck by how elegant and refined it is, especially for a year that was so warm and dry. Sweet red cherry, raspberry jam, espresso, wild flowers, mint and dried herbs all grace the 2017, a wine of simply extraordinary beauty. Il Caberlot has previously been a wine of impact. The 2017 offers plenty of richness, but is also much more finessed than previous editions.
Falstaff (97)
Shimmering ruby colour with a purple sheen. Captivating nose with notes of cigars and cedar, a hint of bay leaf, alongside tons of blackcurrant. Structured and spicy on the palate, followed up by dense tannin, interwoven in a mellow texture with a long finish.
