1998 Terra di Lavoro

Sadly, there are only 200+ cases of wine produced from the 5-acre Terra di Lavoro Vineyard. However, if the Aglianico grape is to achieve world fame, it will be with wines such as this. A blend of 80% Aglianico and 20% Piedirosso, aged for 12 months in new French oak, and bottled with neither fining nor filtering, this profoundly complex, black/purple-colored effort boasts wild blackberry/blueberry and mineral scents intertwined with smoke, tobacco, and licorice aromas. The flavors mirror the bouquet. Displaying a wealth of fruit, glycerin, concentration, and body, it is a massive, huge effort with sweet tannin, low acidity, and a spectacular 45+ second finish. This amazing offering is more civilized and less funky than some previous vintages, which have been stunning, but clearly individualistic and rustic. Look for the 1998 to drink well for 15+ years. A Leonardo Locascio Selection, Winebow, Hohokus, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620