Aglianico is a red wine grape believed to have first been cultivated in Greece. It was then brought to Italy where it is now grown primarily in the Campania and Basilicata regions. The wines produced from this grape are known for their high tannins, considerable acidity, and dense concentration of flavors. While vintages can be rather rough when young, maturity brings about great balance with subtle fruit and chocolate characteristics.
The 2008 Aglianico is produced by Mastroberardino, one of the oldest winemaking firms in Italy, which has been turning out classic wines since the 1700s. American wine guru Robert Parker bestowed a whopping 90 points (out of 100) on this vintage, noting that: “Juicy super ripe cherries, earthiness, dried herbs and tobacco come together in a dark, sensual wine that fully captures the pedigree of this great southern variety.”
This wine normally retails for around $24.00, but it can be had as low as $15.00, depending upon the pricing practices of your retailer. If you don’t mind shelling out a bit more of your hard-earned long green, the 2006 Mastroberardino Aglianico is also still available and, because of its maturity, is slightly smoother upon the palate. It goes for $25.00.
Cheers!
TAD
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