Mastroberardino Taurasi Riserva Radici 2006

Mastroberardino represents the undisputed leader in preserving and promoting the indigenous grape varieties of Campania, earning recognition as the "guardian of Southern Italian winemaking tradition." Founded in 1878 and now led by the tenth generation of the Mastroberardino family, this historic estate has dedicated itself to rescuing and perfecting the region's native varietals, particularly Aglianico, which forms the backbone of their legendary Taurasi wines. The Radici Riserva represents the estate's flagship expression, sourcing grapes from their finest vineyard sites and employing extended aging to create a wine that showcases the full potential of this noble Italian grape.

The 2006 vintage emerged from exceptional growing conditions in the hills of Irpinia, where the combination of volcanic soils, high altitude, and Mediterranean climate creates ideal conditions for Aglianico cultivation. The Radici designation, meaning "roots," reflects both the estate's deep historical connection to this terroir and their commitment to expressing the authentic character of Campanian winemaking. The Riserva classification requires extended aging that allows the wine to develop the complexity and refinement that distinguish the finest expressions of Taurasi.

The winemaking process follows traditional methods refined through generations of family experience, with careful selection of grapes from the estate's oldest and finest vineyard sites, followed by extended fermentation and aging in a combination of large Slavonian oak casks and smaller barrels. After nearly two decades of development, the 2006 Taurasi Riserva Radici displays the wine's characteristic power and elegance, with an intensely aromatic bouquet featuring dark fruits, tar, roses, and earthy minerality that speaks to the volcanic soils of Irpinia.

The palate reveals extraordinary depth and structure, with flavors of black cherry, plum, leather, and spice supported by robust yet refined tannins and bright acidity. This wine demonstrates Mastroberardino's mastery of Aglianico and their role as custodians of Southern Italian winemaking tradition, creating an expression that honors the grape's ancient heritage while achieving international recognition for quality and authenticity.

Harvest: Hand-picked from estate's finest Aglianico vineyard sites

Grape varieties: 100% Aglianico

Classification: DOCG Taurasi Riserva

Aging: Extended aging in Slavonian oak and small barrels

Alcohol: 14% ABV