RED WINE
Campania
Campania
There's plenty to take in round here, from the winding roads of the Amalfi coast, to the glamour of Capri and a day trip to explore remnants of the ancient civilisation at Pompeii. And whilst the Romans might think they've got pizza bragging rights, the province of Campania is home to mighty Naples. World famous for San Marzano tomatoes and also the epicentre of silky buffalo mozzarella, there really is no competition. The secret to the sauce? The sunny Mediterranean climate and the special volcanic soils of Vesuvius.
Red or white?
Local grape varieties of both colours are believed to have evolved from ancient Greek origins, so they know how to thrive in the heat of the Med. For inky wild reds with structure, tannin and depth there's Aglianico (al-ee-yah-niko). Whites are dominated by textural, nutty and fleshy Fiano from the little town of Avellino.
Aglianico is known as the Nebbiolo of the south, for its capacity to keep acid and tannin in these warmer parts. The best come from Taurasi and full bodied, savoury wines capable of ageing and evolving with some years in bottle. The most successful white is Fiano. Its honeyed florals and waxy style make it a great friend of the aforementioned buffalo mozzarella, as well as firm fish and salads. Special mention too to Greco, for its crisp whites with green apple, flint and citrus notes.
Grapes
Aglianico, Fiano, Greco di Tufo, Falanghina
Favourite Producers
Quintodecimo, Mastroberardino, Feudi di San Gregorio, Pietracupa, Antonio Caggiano, De Conciliis, Petilia, Montevetrano
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Petilia 450V Taurasi 2015An enticing nose of prune, walnut, eucalyptus and something like onion seed. Medium-to full-bodied with a layered texture of fruit and mild, spicy flavors that coat the still lightly firm but melting tannins, creating a very long, flavorful finish, where all the elements find common ground. Delicious. So tempting now, but will continue to improve. Best from 2023. JAMES SUCKLING2015AglianicoItaly363$71.00 As low as $63.90 -
Quintodecimo Taurasi Riserva Vigna Quintodecimo 2017The soil is made up of expandable clay rocks very rich in limestone. The vineyard, situated at 420 metres of altitude with a slope of 25%, is cultivated with a cordon spur training system and has a density of 5.000 plants per hectar. Vigna Quintodecimo is a fine balance of small fruits, floreal notes and spices. Seductive class and aromatic intensity is complemented by savory tannins and well expressed in a profound and refined style. It is a wine of extraordinary richness and elegance that reaches its peak within the first twenty years and still retains its character for many years after. LUIGI MOIO, quintodecimo2017AglianicoItaly363$385.00 As low as $346.50 -
Quintodecimo Taurasi Riserva Vigna Grande Cerzito 2017The soil, created by ashes and pumices, is volcanic, without limestone, well drained, deep and with rough texture. These conditions allow an elevated availability of oxygen for the roots. The vineyard, situated at 440 metres of altitude with a slope of 15%, has a density of 5.000 plants per hectar and is cultivated with a cordon spur training system. Vigna Grande Cerzito is characterized by refined flavours of cherry, plum and chocolate and by a full and delicate structure. Great longevity, it becomes even more delicate and elegant with the passing of the years complementing with fresh notes of mint, eucalyptus and incense. LUIGI MOIO, quintodecimo2017AglianicoItaly363$355.00 As low as $319.50 -
Benito Ferrara Aglianico Irpinia Vigna Quattro Confini 2019Aromas of charcoal, grilled meat, blackberry and baked raspberry. Medium-bodied with silky tannins and juicy fruit. Very herbal on the palate. Thyme and rosemary. Lingering finish. Rather complex and well balanced. Drink now. JAMES SUCKLING2019AglianicoItaly363$58.00 As low as $52.20 -
Petilia Le Sepaie Irpinia Aglianico 2018100% Aglianico from clay and limestone soil in the Taurasi and Paternopoli production zones of southern Italy. The wine is aged in barriques and tonneaux for 12 months.
A complex nose of great depth, intensity and persistent flavours. There are hints of violet, cherry and wild strawberry. The palate shows great structure with enveloping warmth and smooth intense aromas of red fruit with delicate spicy notes.. PETILIA
2018AglianicoItaly363$32.00 As low as $28.80
