Camarcanda Bolgheri DOC 2019 Gaja - Ca Marcanda

This wine qualifies as a Bolgheri Superiore (in terms of vineyard yields and aging), but the Gaja family has always kept it a Bolgheri Rosso that is released one year after its peers. The 2019 Bolgheri Rosso Camarcanda showed shy or closed aromas when first tasted, but it opened considerably when I went back to the open sample bottle a few hours later. It starts with rich plummy aromas, floral accents, dark spice and pencil shaving. It is fully expressive in terms of mouthfeel, with ample structure and power all supported by beautifully ripened fruit and firm tannins. Give this bottle more cellar time to fully develop the bouquet.

A very beautiful young red with blackcurrant, fresh herb and hints of cedar and smoke. It’s full-bodied yet very polished and refined with a lovely texture. Extremely long and graceful. Try after 2025.

This verges on thick yet remains balanced and vibrant, courtesy of the lively acidity. Boasts blackberry, dark plum and blueberry flavors framed by tar and toasty oak. The finish is both dense and clean, with a hint of licorice. Excellent length and potential.

The 2019 Camarcanda is a very good example of how much the wines have changed here. Medium in body with good depth, the 2019 Camarcanda is a tightly wound wine that is going to need a number of years to be at its best. Dark cherry, mocha, new leather, licorice and spice build nicely, with pretty floral and mineral accents that liven up the finish. The 2019 is classy, elegant and polished. Give it a few years, as the tannins are pretty intense today, but this softens nicely with air.