Mastroberardino, Naturalis Historia Taurasi 2011

93 points James Suckling
"Fascinating aromas of dark tea, dark herb, smoked meat and balsamic with dried fruits, too. Full body, layered and spicy with plenty of fruit and intensity. Extremely long and flavorful. Beautiful and traditional. Made from aglianico. Drink or hold."

93 points Wine Enthusiast
"Aromas of scorched earth, new leather, underbrush and a whiff of oak lead the nose. The firm palate shows prune, mature blackberry, cocoa and clove set against tight, fine-grained tannins that still need a few more years to unwind. Drink 2021–2031."

92 points Wine Spectator
"A rich, fragrant red, laced with floral, fennel seed and dried mint and thyme notes, this is bright and well-knit, with sleek tannins firming the ripe and brambly blackberry and cherry fruit. Medium- to full-bodied, offering a lasting, mouthwatering finish. Drink now through 2028."

Vinous Reverie Notes
Named after Pliny the Elder’s magnum opus, “Naturalis Historia,” this wine is the ultimate expression of the rich, volcanic Irpinian terroir. Sourced from a single vineyard, Mirabella Eclano, known for its high-quality potential from old vines. This wine is a culmination of Mastroberardino’s comprehensive research into clonal selection, rootstocks, and site selection when crafting their Taurasi wines. The Mirabella Eclano estate is the main estate owned by the Mastroberardino family, in the heart of the Taurasi DOCG area. The epicenter of Aglianico production, research and experimentation, this estate is spread over several hills with different exposures and is dedicated to the production of red grapes on slopes with soils containing a greater presence of organic and volcanic matter, as well as white grapes grown in soils containing more limestone and clay. Aglianico grapes for Naturalis Historia Taurasi are grown on vineyards that are South-West facing. Deep and sandy loam soils include traces of limestone, clay and some volcanic matter, and is well-draining. Tasting Notes: Deep ruby red. Complex, full, intense and persistent, the bouquet offers aromas of violets, black currant, blackberry, strawberry, black cherry, vanilla, and chocolate. The profile is warm and enveloping, with great structure and softness. Plum, bitter cherry, raspberry, strawberry jam and spices on the palate. Pair with pasta and meat sauces, mushroom, truffles, grilled and roasted red meats, and grilled game.