Tenute Capaldo Gulielmus Taurasi Riserva 2019

Tenute Capaldo, part of the group led by Antonio Capaldo of Feudi di San Gregorio, makes this Gulielmus in the DOCG Taurasi Riserva, the leading red appellation of Campania in southern Italy. It is made entirely from Aglianico, the late-ripening native grape often called the Barolo of the south for its power and ageing capacity. The vineyards sit at altitude on volcanic soils, where the cool nights and long growing season let Aglianico hold its high acidity and firm tannins while ripening fully, and the mineral-rich ground lends the wine its savoury depth. The Riserva spends twenty-four months in oak barrels, where slow oxygen exchange and the long élevage soften the grape's formidable tannins and add cedar, tobacco and a layer of spice. It pours a deep garnet. The nose is dark and complex, with plum, black cherry, leather, tobacco and a peppery, dark-chocolate edge from the wood. The palate is full and structured, the high acidity and firm tannins framing concentrated dark fruit on a long, savoury finish that rewards cellaring. Serve at seventeen to eighteen degrees, decanting an hour ahead. Good with red meat and game.