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Taurasi DOCG 2008 Donnachiara |
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Taurasi is one of Italy's great wines and yet it is still undiscovered by many wine lovers. Only a handful of wineries produce this high altitude red, and Donnachiara is one of the newest. Just profiled in Wine Enthusiast Magazine as a Rising Star, the vineyards are family owned and have been for five generations but the brand new, very modern winery was just established in 2005. Aglianico vineyards slope down the steep hillsides in this mountainous region of Southern Italy. Campania, where Taurasi is located is drenched in sunlight but the high altitude tempers the climate and extends the growing season, allowing the grapes to develop ideal balance of sugars, acids and tannins as well as take on complex flavors. The wine must be aged for three years before release by DOC law and Donnachiara ages this 100% Aglianico Taurasi in French oak barriques for 12 months adding layers of flavor and dimension. It shows delightful dark berry fruit and mineral richness that's very appealing even at this early stage, as Taurasi typically ages for decades. Taurasi is never inexpensive but perhaps the most remarkable thing about this wine is that it tastes like it should cost twice as much. It offers an amazing value for a wine of this quality. The Wine Spectator scored it 92 points saying "A dark, brawny red, with undertones of mocha, olive paste and game to the dark plum, blackberry and cassis notes. The full tannins are fine-grained, and the finish lingers with an aftertaste of ash. Best from 2014 through 2024."
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Customer Reviews
(1 of 1 customers found this review helpful) 5.0My Favorite Wine Under $30! By Westchester Wine Guy from Wine Express - Entertaining
- Special Occasions
- Pairs Well With:
- Beef, Game
4.0Very robust and lingering to the palate By Herb from cincinnati About Me Aspiring Enthusiast - Pairs Well With:
- Beef, Cheese Gouda, Pizza and Pasta
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