Terredora di Paolo Fatica Contadina Taurasi 2014 750ml

From the volcanic soils of Irpinia comes this masterful Taurasi that represents the pinnacle of Southern Italian winemaking. Terredora di Paolo's 'Fatica Contadina' (farmer's toil) pays homage to the hard work required to cultivate Aglianico in these challenging mountain vineyards. The 2014 vintage, now perfectly mature, showcases why Taurasi is often called the 'Barolo of the South'—a wine of extraordinary complexity, power, and longevity from Italy's most noble southern grape.

The wine displays a deep garnet color with distinct orange reflections at the rim, indicating its evolution and readiness to drink. The nose is magnificently complex, offering the tertiary development that makes aged Aglianico so compelling. Dried cherries, leather, and tobacco lead, followed by notes of tar, dried roses, and balsamic. As the wine opens, layers of complexity emerge: black truffle, espresso, licorice, and the distinctive volcanic minerality that defines great Taurasi.

On the palate, this 2014 Fatica Contadina delivers the perfect expression of mature Aglianico. The once-fierce tannins have resolved into a velvety texture that still provides substantial structure. Flavors of dried red fruits, leather, and earth dominate, complemented by notes of black olive, herbs, and aged balsamic. The wine's natural high acidity, preserved through careful winemaking, keeps everything fresh and focused despite the wine's age and power. This is Aglianico at its most harmonious and complete.

What makes this Terredora bottling exceptional is its perfect capture of Taurasi's unique character. The volcanic soils of Irpinia, combined with high altitude and dramatic temperature swings, create conditions where Aglianico achieves its fullest expression. The traditional winemaking approach, including extended maceration and aging in large oak casks, allows the wine to develop complexity while maintaining its essential character. This 2014 is drinking at its absolute peak, showing the magic that occurs when great Aglianico reaches maturity.

The finish is extraordinarily long and complex, with layers of fruit, earth, and mineral notes that continue to evolve over minutes. This is a wine that demands contemplation, best enjoyed over the course of an evening as it continues to open and reveal new facets. It pairs magnificently with braised meats, game, aged cheeses, or the rich ragùs of Campania. For lovers of aged Nebbiolo or Rhône wines seeking to explore Italy's south, this Taurasi offers a revelation—proof that Aglianico belongs among the world's greatest red varieties.