2016 Mastroberardino “Stilèma” Taurasi Riserva, Campania, Italy

ABOUT THIS WINE

The Stilèma project reflects Mastroberardino’s return to the stylistic roots of traditional Taurasi: elegance over power, nuance over extraction. Sourced from old-vine Aglianico planted in Montemarano and Mirabella Eclano—two of Taurasi’s most important crus—the 2016 vintage benefited from a long, cool growing season, allowing for slow ripening and full phenolic development.

Fermentation takes place in stainless steel with extended maceration, followed by 30 months of aging in large Slavonian oak casks and older French oak barrels. After bottling, the wine rests further before release. The result is a restrained yet complex red with notes of sour cherry, leather, dried herbs, iron, and smoke, supported by taut acidity and persistent structure.

ABOUT THIS PRODUCER

Mastroberardino is a historic estate in Campania and a key figure in preserving the legacy of native Southern Italian varieties, particularly Aglianico. Based in Irpinia, the family has cultivated Taurasi since the 18th century and played a pivotal role in securing its DOCG status. The Stilèma line, spearheaded by Piero Mastroberardino, honors the estate’s traditional winemaking philosophy—highlighting site transparency, aging potential, and classic structure. The 2016 Riserva is a benchmark wine: noble, restrained, and unmistakably reflective of Irpinia’s volcanic soul.