(Salvatore Molettieri Vigna Cinque Querce Taurasi DOCG, Campania) Molettieri is one of the most exciting producers not only in Campania, but in all of Italy. The vineyards are in Montemarano, the best subzone for Taurasi Aglianico, and production is entirely Biodynamic at this tiny, family-run estate. Because of the fairly high altitude, harvest may not take place until mid-November, sometimes under snow. The finished wines are packed with massively complex flavors. This Vigna Cinque Querce is a single cru that spends 36 months in French oak and another six months in bottle before release. It's dark and rich, offering aromas of dried plum, tobacco, and sweet-smoky spices. The intense palate brings flavors of dried dark berries, tar, cured meats, ash, and earth that last for minutes on the finish. Hot Picks
By Fred Dexheimer, MS
(Salvatore Molettieri Vigna Cinque Querce Taurasi DOCG, Campania) Molettieri is one of the most exciting producers not only in Campania, but in all of Italy. The vineyards are in Montemarano, the best subzone for Taurasi Aglianico, and production is entirely Biodynamic at this tiny, family-run estate. Because of the fairly high altitude, harvest may not take place until mid-November, sometimes under snow. The finished wines are packed with massively complex flavors. This Vigna Cinque Querce is a single cru that spends 36 months in French oak and another six months in bottle before release. It's dark and rich, offering aromas of dried plum, tobacco, and sweet-smoky spices. The intense palate brings flavors of dried dark berries, tar, cured meats, ash, and earth that last for minutes on the finish. Hot PicksNovember 2009, (See more on Sommelier Journal...)