Aglianico and Friends
We started last week with two whites from Campania. They were both dry, clean and well balanced. Other than that, completely different.
April 18, 2018
The 2016 Mastroberardino Greco di Tufo showed bright pure pear fruit and a floral touch. The 2013 Vigne Guadagno Fiano di Avellino Sant’Aniello was bold with rich stone fruits and a smoky finish.
Four wines made with Aglianico were next, three from Campania and one from Basilicata. As one would expect they all had rich flavors and plenty of tannin. The 2011 Casa di Baal Aglianico was perhaps the most aggressive of the four and is a wine that really gets your attention. Then the 2011 La Vigne de Raito Ragis actually showed some elegance and restraint. It is still rich and tannic but perhaps softened a bit by the use of 20% Piedirosso in the blend. This one got the most favorite votes.
It was interesting how switching to Basilicata gave a somewhat different style. The 2013 Elena Fucci Aglianico del Vulture Titolo showed more of an earth tone with some barnyard in the background of the deep cherry fruit. Tasters were either impressed or id not really like this style. One taster said no and then changed his mind on a second taste. Last we went to Taurasi where most of the Aglianico in Campania is grown. The 2012 Antonio Caggiano Taurasi Vigna Macchia dei Goti was the most classic of the group. It showed richness, spice, and balance.
White
Red
Special pack: six bottles of each of the above wines for a special price of $208
Special mixed case: Two bottles of each of the above for a special price of: $393
Please pass this on to any friends who are wine enthusiasts!
- Peter Hemenway
