Winemaker Notes
The Fidelis is made predominantly of Aglianico, although it has small percentages of Merlot (5%) and Sangiovese (5%). It is fermented in stainless steel and aged in a combination of large oak casks and used French-oak barrriques.
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2006 Aglianico del Taburno Fidelis is an excellent choice for readers who want to explore the qualities of Aglianico, one of southern Italy’s great red varieties. This forward, soft red offers up sweet cherries, smoke, herbs, spices and cured meats in an approachable style, with plenty of varietal character and tons of personality. It is a fabulous effort from Cantina del Taburno, as well as a terrific value.
Italian Red Wine
While picturesque hillsides, endless coastlines and a favorable climate serve to unify the grape-growing culture of this country. The apparent never-ending world of indigenous grape varieties gives Italy an unexampled charm and allure for its red wines. From the steep inclines of the Alps to the sprawling, warm, coastal plains of the south, red grape varieties thrive throughout.
The kings of Italy, wines like Barolo and Barbaresco (made of Nebbiolo), and Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino (made of Sangiovese), as well as Amarone (mostly Corvina), play center stage for the most lauded, collected and cellar-worthy reds. Less popular but entirely deserving of as much praise are the wines made from Aglianico, Sagrantino and Nerello Mascalese.
For those accustomed to drinking New World reds, the south is the place to start. Grapes like Negroamaro or Primitvo from Puglia and Nero d’Avola from Sicily make soft, ammicable, full-bodied, fruit-dominant wines. Curious palates should be on the lookout for Cannonau (Grenache), Lagrein, Teroldego, Ruché, Freisa, Cesanese, Schiopettino, Rossese and Gaglioppo to name a few.