SALVATORE MOLETTIERI 2013 CINQUE CUERCE TAURASI

For those looking for something different, the Taurasi area in the southern region of Campania still offers one of Italy's great wine values. It's sometimes called the Barolo of the South, as the Aglianico variety is boldly structured with firm tannins and racy acidity that make it perfect for extended aging. Fortunately, the Salvatore Molettieri, founded in 1983 and still very traditional, has made this pre-aged Taurasi for all of us to enjoy now! The Cinque Querce (Five Oaks) vineyard still has old pre-phylloxera vines, which tend to contribute depth and finesse relative to younger vines. Taurasi develops a complex, savory bouquet that tends toward darker red fruits and black fruits along with spices, herbs, tobacco, and worn leather. If old-world charm is your thing, get this while it's here!

#75 ON WINE SPECTATOR TOP 100 2021
WINE SPECTATOR 94 POINTS - "A sleek and racy red, with sculpted tannins providing fine definition for the tightly knit flavors of cherry and black raspberry, Mediterranean scrub, star anise and graphite. It’s full-bodied and dense, with the flavor range slowly unfurling in the glass and on the palate.”