Featured Wine of the Month
November 2011
2008 Mastroberardino Aglianico
Aglianico is a red wine grape believed to have first been cultivated in Greece. It was then brought to Italy where it is now grown primarily in the Campania and Basilicata regions. The wines produced from this grape are known for their high tannins, considerable acidity, and dense concentration of flavors. While vintages can be rather rough when young, maturity brings about great balance with subtle fruit and chocolate characteristics.
The 2008 noted this month is produced by Mastroberardino, one of the oldest winemaking firms in Italy, which has been turning out classic wines since the 1700s. American wine guru Robert Parker bestowed a whopping 90 points (out of 100) on this vintage, noting that: “Juicy super ripe cherries, earthiness, dried herbs and tobacco come together in a dark, sensual wine that fully captures the pedigree of this great southern variety.”
This wine normally retails for $23.99, but the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board, in one of its capricious whims, has it on sale for a mere $15.99. And, given the outstanding quality of this vintage, that is, indeed, a bargain. The premium store in Wayne (Whole Foods Plaza, Devon Village Shops) has cases and cases… but these bargains usually sell out fast.
If you don’t mind shelling out a bit more of your hard-earned long green, the 2006 Mastroberardino Aglianico is also available and, because of its maturity, is slightly smoother upon the palate. It goes for $24.99.
Cheers!
The Artful Diner
November 2011
Want to receive e-mail notification when a new review or article is posted? E-mail The Artful Diner!
Be sure to specify New Jersey or Pennsylvania
