Feudi di San Gregorio’s 2016 Piano di Montevergine Taurasi is a stellar expression of southern Italy’s noble Aglianico grape. This cuvée stems from single-vineyard old vines rooted in the volcanic soils of the Montevergine cru, an area renowned for bestowing depth and character to its wines. The 2016 vintage was marked by a temperate growing season, with warm days and cool nights helping Aglianico fully ripen while retaining vital acidity and elegance. Careful hand-harvesting is followed by long macerations and ageing in a combination of French and American oak barrels, giving the finished wine complex layers of black fruit, liquorice, exotic spice, cedar and dark chocolate, all carried by firm yet polished tannins and a vibrant backbone of acidity. With its concentrated core, the wine has the structure to age gracefully for many years.
Taurasi is the flagship appellation of Campania, located inland on rolling hills above Naples. This region enjoys a Mediterranean climate with marked diurnal variation—warm, sunny days and cooler nights—ideal for Aglianico, which is sometimes referred to as the “Barolo of the South” due to its power and ageing potential. The volcanic soils, rich in minerals and clay, lend vitality and a unique smoky nuance to the wines. Taurasi’s winemaking tradition stretches back centuries, with local producers like Feudi di San Gregorio spearheading its recent renaissance by combining innovation with respect for the region’s heritage.
Such a structured, deep red finds its finest expression alongside robust dishes. Consider pairing with Neapolitan ragù, braised lamb shanks, osso buco, or wild boar stew—classic southern fare that mirrors the wine’s intensity. Aged cheeses such as pecorino or caciocavallo also respond beautifully to its tannic grip.
To fully appreciate its complexity, serve at 16-18°C, ideally after decanting for at least one to two hours to allow the aromatics to blossom. Enjoy now for its youthful power or cellar for another decade to reveal its deepest secrets.
