Friday Sips

Come and join us to sample 4 Southern Italian wines that show that there is lots happening South of Rome. Campania, Calabria & more!

Campania, just outside of Naples. 100% Aglianico. Produced by an award-winning white wine estate and their prowess also carries over beautifully to this remarkable red which is grown within the Avellino district which has the rare distinction of having both the Fiano di Avellino DOCG and Taurasi DOCG in the same commune. 25 year old vines and aged in old barrels, this wine and can easily be referred to as ‘Taurasi Jr.’. Full-flavored, complex and jacked with truffle, coffee, black olive and high-toned red fruits, it is robust, structured and mouth-filling and not a cocktail kind of red wine, instead it cries out for protein. Have it with a roasted leg of lamb slathered in fresh herbs. Drink through 2022.

Puglia. 100% Primitivo which along with Crljenak Kastelanski from Croatia is genetically linked to Zinfandel. A complete different beast due to the soil types and climate, Manduria is the motherlode region for the best versions of this varietal. Deep, forward, chewy and deliciously fun with dark berry fruit, roasted earth and pepper spice on the thrill-ride nose. Refined intensity in the mouth with juicy blackberry, brambly raspberry, vanilla, roasted coffee and exotic spice. The finish is peppery, juicy and easy to like, especially at this price. A no-brainer with anything from mushroom risotto, pizza or pasta and a great match for a cheese plate with semi-soft cheeses and cured meats.

Calabria. 100% Gaglioppo which was originally thought to be of Greek origin. Recent DNA indicates its mention as 1240 and actually Italian origins, possibly a relationship between Sangiovese and another unidentified varietal. It really is its own beast, perhaps acting most like warm climate Nebbiolo. A mafia gangster dressed in an expensive suit. Debonair but maintaining street credibility. Well crafted, licorice, almond, smoke and sea salt aspects. Earth-spice, broad, gripping texture. Pairs extremely well with tomatoes and can handle some hot peppers.

Sicily. Mt. Etna. 100% Carricante. Long-established producer in one of the trendiest areas, Benanti’s wines are all about detail and precision. Young vines (35-50 years old) cuvee. Lightning in a bottle, sultry aromas grow and build as the wine sits in the glass. A mass presence of granite, seashore, lemongrass, peach, peat aromas and a gentle hint of spice on the tail end. Very special in the mouth with an equally sultry texture that is substantial, detailed, wiry and full of electricity. The finish is luxurious, lavish and extends for about 10 miles. Break out the swordfish and do it in a salmoriglio sauce.