Mastroberardino is the historic reference-point producer of Taurasi in Campania. For decades, they have made rich, powerful, age-worthy wines from Aglianico. Many consider their 1968s to be among the greatest Italian wines ever.
They have a Barolo-ish profile: alluring aromatics, high acidity, power, length, and endurance. But the grape and Taurasi's intensely volcanic soils give the wines a special twist. Blind, you might believe a Mastroberardino ringer is a great Barolo, till you take the tinfoil off and see why it was just a little different from the rest. Maybe you got a touch of coffee on the nose, or a hint of leatheriness in the finish—just a little something to take it south of Rome.
Professional Reviews
Antonio Galloni
AG
94
"Inky ruby. Very perfumed aromas of violet, blueberry, black cherry, lavender and cloves on the knockout nose. Then bright, fresh and juicy; rising, polished tannins nicely support the rich yet refined blueberry and flinty black cherry flavors. Finishes long with hints of botanical herbs and licorice. Gorgeous Taurasi Riserva." -Vinous
Robert Parker
RP
95
"Mastroberardino has crafted a remarkable 2009 Taurasi Radici Riserva. The wine reveals dark fiber and concentration with interwoven aromas of toasted nut, spice and hearty dark fruit. Pressed cherry, plum and black currant define the fruity element of the bouquet. The mouthfeel is plush and soft with a contemporary style that flaunts ripe fruit extraction with warming oak and spice. The integration is spot-on and this vintage is almost ready to drink now."
Wine Spectator
WS
95
"An impressive red, seamless yet substantial in structure, loaded with notes of black currant and blackberry preserves, mineral, smoke and earth. Fragrant anise, tobacco and graphite accents glide on the long, lasting finish."
Wine Enthusiast
WE
94
"Pipe tobacco, spiced plum, underbrush, vanilla, new leather and balsamic aromas jump out of the glass while the juicy delicious palate doles out fleshy black cherry, crushed raspberry, licorice and ground pepper. Firm, velvety and enveloping tannins provide smooth polished support."
Details
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Grape Variety
Aglianico
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Vintage
2009
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Size
750ml