Le Masciare Taurasi 2018 750ml

Product Info

Terroir
Produced in the rugged hills of Taurasi, this Taurasi DOCG 2018 is crafted entirely from Aglianico, a grape often referred to as the “Barolo of the South” for its structure and longevity. Vineyards sit at moderate to high elevations within inland Campania, where the Apennine Mountains shape a continental microclimate distinct from the coastal influences nearby.

Soils in the Taurasi zone are complex, composed of volcanic ash, clay, limestone, and sandy components—remnants of ancient eruptions from Mount Vesuvius and surrounding volcanic activity. These mineral-rich soils impart both power and a distinct savory undertone to the wines. Warm summer days encourage full phenolic ripeness, while cool evenings preserve acidity and aromatic tension.

The 2018 growing season provided balanced conditions, with steady warmth and sufficient rainfall earlier in the cycle. Harvest conditions allowed for gradual ripening, yielding fruit of concentration without excess heaviness—an important factor for Aglianico, which thrives on extended hang time.

Winemaking & Technical Notes
Hand-harvested fruit underwent careful sorting before fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel. Extended maceration is typical for Taurasi, allowing for full extraction of color, tannin, and the grape’s inherently robust structure.

In accordance with DOCG regulations, the wine was aged for a minimum period that includes significant time in oak. Le Masciare employs a combination of large casks and smaller barrels to soften Aglianico’s formidable tannins while preserving varietal character. The extended élevage integrates structure and encourages the development of secondary complexity.

Bottle aging prior to release further refines the wine, allowing its powerful architecture to harmonize.

Tasting Notes
Deep garnet in the glass, the 2018 opens with aromas of black cherry, dried plum, and wild blackberry layered over notes of violet, crushed stone, and dried herbs. Subtle hints of leather, tobacco, and smoked earth emerge with aeration.

On the palate, the wine is firmly structured and full-bodied. Flavors of sour cherry, dark berry, and pomegranate are supported by pronounced yet polished tannins. A vibrant spine of acidity drives the wine forward, lending energy and balance to its dense core. Savory undertones—graphite, iron, and earthy spice—add dimension, while oak contributes nuanced notes of cedar and clove.

The finish is long and persistent, marked by firm structure and lingering dark fruit framed by mineral tension.

Food Pairing & Service
Serve at 60–65°F and decant for at least 90 minutes to soften tannins and allow aromatic complexity to unfold. Taurasi pairs beautifully with slow-braised lamb shank, osso buco, wild boar ragù, or aged pecorino. Its structure also complements chargrilled meats and hearty, tomato-based Southern Italian dishes.

The wine’s firm backbone and acidity allow it to stand alongside rich, protein-driven cuisine.

Cellaring & Longevity
Aglianico is renowned for its aging potential, and the 2018 Taurasi DOCG is built for the long term. While enjoyable now with extended decanting, it will benefit from additional cellaring to allow tannins to soften and tertiary notes to emerge.

Over the next 5–10 years, expect primary dark fruit to evolve into flavors of dried fig, leather, balsamic, and forest floor. Optimal drinking is anticipated from 2026 through 2040, with the potential to age 20 years or more under proper cellar conditions. As it matures, the wine will gain greater nuance and complexity, showcasing the noble, age-worthy character that defines Taurasi.