2007 Terredora Di Paolo, Aglianico, Campania

Aglianico is one of those grapes that for many is slightly off their radar and for others completely unheard of. Yet this grape makes wines that, for me, are some of the most alluring that I have ever had. It may be that I am just a fickle wine drinker, and need to drink a different wine daily. (Sometimes more often than that.) Grown in southern Italy, primarily in Campania and Basilicata, it really shines when grown in volcanic soils; places like Vulture and Taurasi really bring this grape to another level. Known for its fierce tannins at times, the wine is also capable of being very deep with finer grained tannins that support the big dark fruit almost effortlessly.

Terradora has been around since 1978. Grape growers and winery owners, with over 150 hectares of vineyard land, they say they are the largest wine producer and vineyard owner in Campania. They also make a Taurasi or two and produce wines from another of my favorite grapes the Falanghina.

This wine was an IGT from Campania and so, not that expensive, $19.99. I picked this bottle up at a wine shop in Chestnut Hill, MA. A very nicely laid out store with a thoughtful selection.

The wine: Color is lighter than one might expect from this grape. Light to medium red with light purple edges. Aromas are very fragrant from the start. Dark cherries, licorice, vanilla, green peppercorn, and an interesting hint of a pungent green leaf. (arugula?) Flavor, medium weight, concentrated, and focused, aromas really carry to the palate, slight chocolate, sweet ripe fruit, balanced acidity, nice dry finish. The finish is OK, a little short. Very Good-. Buy again: Yes.