90+ 2009 Tenuta del Portale Aglianico del Vulture Le Vigne a Cappanno (Basilicata) 5/30/14 ($22)
100% Aglianico 13.5% alc
Color: Deep black garnet to brick red. (3.0) Bouquet: Concentrated blueberry, acai and dried black cherry with prominent, dusty volcanic minerals and pistachio candy nuances. Opens beautifully after a couple of hours in a decanter. (3.5) Body: Excellent smooth, yet edgy, tannins and fruit with very good acidity. Light Heavyweight with a tangy, slightly astringent mouthfeel. (3.0) Flavor: Parallels bouquet, but more austere and not as expressive. (3.0) Finish: Volcanic minerals and dried Italian herbs linger with fruit complementing. Long with restrained power. (3.0)
Overall: Impressive structure combined with restrained yet concentrated Old World fruit make a strong positive impression. A beautiful example of the appellation in a classic style. Excellent now, but might improve if it can become more expressive and elegant in the next 2-4 years. Goes great with pasta in meat sauce or roasted meats. Excellent value. (15.5)
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