Following on from last week's discussion of some of the white wine highlights from our recent trip to Italy, this week looks at the reds.
Feudi di San Gregorio Aglianico del Vulture 2007
One of the leading wineries in Campania, this Sorbo Serpico based producer puts out a fine collection of whites, headed by the fantastic Fiano di Avellino Pietracalda, but also produce some interesting and delicious reds. The 2007 Aglianico del Vulture, is as the name suggests, made from the ancient Aglianico grape, and grown in the Vulture region of neighbouring Basilicata. It is a robust, full bodied red, with plenty of red berry fruit and an attractive earth quality. Very enjoyable, and a good accompaniment to grilled meat.
Fattoria Nittardi Chianti Classico
Casanuova di Nittardi 2008
The Casanuova di Nittardi is one of those wines that are distinctive for their artists' labels. As with any series, some are better than others, and the 2008 certainly wouldn't be my top choice. (The series can be seen here, with some images such as '86 and '90 perhaps not safe for work.) However, the 2008 wine is a winner, offering some pretty aromatics, with floral notes mingling with red fruit aromas, while the full-bodied palate is well balanced and delicious, with light tannins smoothing the way to an agreeable finish.
Castello di Fonterutoli Chianti
Classico Castello di Fonterutoli 2007
The Mazzei family have owned this historic winery for over 500 years, and that counts for a lot, even in such a historic region. The restaurant, on the little hill overlooking the cellar door on the other side of the road, is well worth seeking out for a very pleasant lunch. The 2007 edition (note the labal changed from this vintage) of Fonterutoli's flagship wine is also well worth seeking out, although its day of drinking is probably best postponed. That said, it is still very drinkable now, especially if you have time to let it sit in the decanter first. With time, the nose develops, showing plum and dried berries, while the well-rounded palate is a harmonious blend of ripe fruit and tart cherry, with the structure to suggest this will be better in around 4-5 years.
The Mazzei family have owned this historic winery for over 500 years, and that counts for a lot, even in such a historic region. The restaurant, on the little hill overlooking the cellar door on the other side of the road, is well worth seeking out for a very pleasant lunch. The 2007 edition (note the labal changed from this vintage) of Fonterutoli's flagship wine is also well worth seeking out, although its day of drinking is probably best postponed. That said, it is still very drinkable now, especially if you have time to let it sit in the decanter first. With time, the nose develops, showing plum and dried berries, while the well-rounded palate is a harmonious blend of ripe fruit and tart cherry, with the structure to suggest this will be better in around 4-5 years.
Previous week.
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