At a glance

Producer

Tenute Capaldo

Region

Campania, Italy

Grape variety

Aglianico

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

€55-€80

Tasting profile

Concentrated black cherry and plum, licorice, tobacco, leather, spice and mineral. Tannic backbone, evolving earthiness.

Evolution: Primary dark fruit notes slowly giving way to tertiary character: truffle, forest floor, balsamic, dried rose.

At peak: Fully harmonized fruit, tannin, and acid; complex tertiary bouquet; silky yet structured mouthfeel.

Structure

Acidity

Fresh, high acidity supporting aging

Tannins

Firm, powerful, but beginning to integrate

Alcohol

Medium to high

Aging potential

Long-term (15-20 years typical for top Taurasi Riservas)

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2035

Optimal window

2025 to 2038

Current status

Youthful but approachable, decanting recommended

Current condition

Structurally intact, tightly knit tannins with deep fruit concentration

Aglianico from Taurasi is renowned for its structure and longevity. The 2018 Riserva will reach full aromatic and textural integration after 10-15 years, making 2028-2035 the projected peak. Textbook Riserva character will be apparent soon, but with further depth as tertiary notes develop.

Food pairing

Osso buco, lamb shank, aged pecorino, truffle risotto, wild boar ragù, or hearty mushroom dishes.

Serving

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — The wine has firm, powerful tannins that are beginning to integrate, suggesting it will benefit from aeration to soften and enhance its flavors.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Integrated pest management in vineyards, minimal use of herbicides/fertilizers, progressing toward reduced chemical input. Traditional gravity-fed winemaking facility with moderate attention to energy and water conservation. Partial lightweight glass for Riserva bottles.

Tenute Capaldo has moved progressively toward sustainable vineyard management, with efforts to reduce chemical and water inputs, but lacks full organic or biodynamic certification. The estate utilizes some resource-saving practices and lighter packaging. The environmental impact is within the better range for the region, though transport for export adds to the overall footprint. The score reflects a solid commitment to sustainability, yet room for further improvements with potential for formal certifications and more advanced carbon reductions in future.