2019 Mastroberardino Taurasi "Radici", Campania, Italy

ABOUT THIS WINE

“Radici” is made from 100% Aglianico grown in the hills around Montemarano, one of the historic heartlands of Taurasi in Irpinia. High elevations, cool nights, and mineral-rich volcanic soils allow Aglianico to ripen slowly, preserving the acidity and aromatic intensity that give Taurasi its remarkable longevity.

The grapes are hand-harvested and carefully selected before a traditional fermentation and extended maceration. The wine is then matured in large Slavonian oak casks, an important part of the classic Mastroberardino style. Rather than imparting overt oak flavors, the larger vessels allow the wine's substantial tannins and acidity to integrate while preserving the purity of Aglianico and its expression of place.

The 2019 vintage offers an excellent balance of ripe fruit, freshness, and structure. Already showing the beginnings of tertiary complexity, it should continue to evolve toward dried cherry, leather, tobacco, truffle, and forest-floor notes with further bottle age. It is an ideal partner for braised beef, lamb, wild boar, aged cheeses, roasted game, and hearty Neapolitan dishes.

ABOUT THIS PRODUCER

Mastroberardino is one of Campania's most important historic wine families, with a winemaking heritage dating back to the 18th century. Based in Atripalda, the family played a pivotal role in preserving Campania's indigenous varieties—particularly Aglianico, Fiano, and Greco—during a period when many traditional vineyards were being replaced by international grapes.

“Radici,” meaning “roots,” embodies this commitment to Campania's native heritage. The estate farms vineyards throughout Irpinia and combines meticulous vineyard work with traditional cellar practices, including the use of large oak casks for Taurasi. Its philosophy is firmly rooted in expressing the region's distinctive mountain climate and volcanic soils rather than chasing excessive ripeness or oak influence.

Mastroberardino's Taurasi has long been regarded as a benchmark for the appellation, and “Radici” demonstrates why: powerful but not heavy, intensely structured yet aromatic and graceful, with the acidity and tannic backbone necessary for decades of development.