Wines Aglianico del Taburno Villa Poggio Salvi - 2020

Viniou Reviews

Villa Poggio Salvi's 2020 Aglianico del Taburno DOCG is a striking expression of Southern Italy's venerable Aglianico grape. This red wine, produced in the heart of Campania, offers a powerful yet refined personality shaped by its unique terroir. The grape, often referred to as the "Barolo of the South", delivers a deep ruby hue and an aromatic profile brimming with dark cherries, wild berries, plum, leather, and earthy undertones. The 2020 vintage, marked by moderate temperatures and well-timed rainfall, has ensured excellent ripeness and structure, allowing for finely integrated tannins and lively acidity. The careful vinification – typically involving a long maceration and maturation in oak – brings further complexity, with subtle notes of tobacco, spice and a lingering mineral finish.

The Aglianico del Taburno region sits on the slopes of Mount Taburno, benefiting from volcanic soils rich in minerals, which impart distinct depth and freshness to the wines. The climate here, a balanced mix of Mediterranean warmth and cool mountain breezes, allows for extended growing seasons, which is particularly favourable for the late-ripening Aglianico grape. Historically, Campania holds a storied place in Italian wine culture, tracing its roots to ancient times when Greek settlers introduced viticulture. Today, the region is celebrated for its ability to produce robust, age-worthy reds that reflect both tradition and terroir.

Pairing excellently with food, Villa Poggio Salvi's Aglianico is a fine companion to rich, flavourful dishes. Classic Campanian fare like slow-cooked beef ragù, wild boar stew, or aubergine parmigiana will showcase the wine’s structure and complement its dark-fruited intensity. For the adventurous, aged cheeses such as Pecorino or Caciocavallo evoke a true sense of place.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at 16-18°C, ideally after an hour or two of aeration. If cellared, it has noteworthy aging potential, but its inviting fruit and balance also make the 2020 vintage a pleasure to discover now.