Wines Taurasi Mastroberardino - Stílèma - 2016

Mastroberardino’s Cuvée Stílèma 2016 from the Taurasi DOC in Campania is a superb example of southern Italy’s winemaking heritage. This is a red wine crafted from the noble Aglianico grape, renowned for its structure, depth, and longevity. The 2016 vintage benefited from a long growing season with favourable weather, allowing for optimal ripeness and expressive aromatics. Vinification at Mastroberardino respects tradition: fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel, followed by extended ageing in large oak casks, contributing both complexity and silky tannins. The result is a wine of remarkable balance, exhibiting aromas of dried cherries, violet, leather, and fine spices, with a dense yet elegant palate and a lingering mineral-driven finish.

Nestled in the heart of Campania, the Taurasi appellation is often dubbed the "Barolo of the South". The region’s undulating hills sit at elevations of 400–600 metres above sea level. The volcanic soils, rich in minerals, combined with temperate but marked diurnal temperature shifts, bestow freshness and vibrant acidity upon the wines. Campania boasts a winemaking tradition dating back millennia, with the ancient Greeks and Romans lauding the region’s wines. Today, Taurasi’s reputation rests on the quality and ageworthiness of its Aglianico-based reds, which marry rustic power with finesse.

When considering food pairings, this Taurasi’s robust structure and savoury complexity shine alongside rich meat dishes. Think slow-braised lamb shanks, osso buco or hearty beef stews. Traditional Campanian fare, such as “ragù napoletano” (a slow-cooked tomato and meat sauce), roasted wild boar or aged cheeses like Pecorino or Provolone del Monaco, will accentuate the wine’s earthy character and tame its youthful tannins.

For tasting, decantation is recommended to allow the wine to open up and reveal its full aromatic potential. Serve at 16-18°C. Such a wine has significant ageing potential, but it can be enjoyed now with careful aeration, revealing layers that will only deepen with time.