San Domenico Principe Irpinia Aglianico 2011

Campania, Italy

San Domenico Principe Aglianico is a delightful red wine gem from the Campania region of southern Italy. The official mwine appellation is Irpinia Aglianico Campi Taurasini DOC. The estate takes its name from the area that it is located in Chiusano di San Domenico and its literal translation is the Hills of San Domenico. The terrain is hilly with vineyards at altitudes of 400 to 700 meters above sea level which provides cooling night time temperatures in those sunny southern Italian summers. This change in temperature from day to night gives these wines a balance that is part of their natural character. The soils are calcareous and are of volcanic origin. All of the fruit is hand harvested and the grapes are both grown on their property and selectively sourced. The age of the vines ranges from 10 to 20 years old.

The wine is ruby red to garnet in color. On the nose there’s a touch of vanilla that is immediately supported by intense dark fruit, smoke and earth. On the palate there’s dark fruit again, blackberry, velvety texture, and spice with round-tannins a hint of smoke and a very pleasing finish. Pairs well with red meat, cheese and game.