Vesevo Beneventano Aglianico

Vesevo is situated in the Irpinian hills of Campania. Known as the 'Switzerland of the South', this is now one of Italy's most exciting wine producing areas. The vineyards are situated at between 450 to 700 metres above sea level and are subject to a constant cool breeze that blows off the Bay of Naples. Over the centuries, this same breeze has blown volcanic ash from Mount Vesuvius inland, to give the soil here a poor, volcanic character.

The flavours obtained in the vineyard are then preserved in the winery by Antonio Melone. The Aglianico is from the warmer area of Benevento and is a fine and affordable example of one of Italy's greatest grapes. The Taurasi is in a class of its own. Concentrated and complex, it boasts intense flavours of red berries, cherry and spice.

Both whites are fermented at lower "New Zealand-esque" temperatures (13-14°C), resulting in much purer flavours being captured. The Greco di Tufo is scented yet dry, with a lovely texture and a panoply of subtle flavours filling the glass. The Falanghina shows delicate perfumes of white flowers with mineral notes to complement the full, ripe palate.

Aglianico,

The Vesevo vineyards are situated between 450 and 550 metres above sea level, and are always subject to the cool breeze blowing off the Bay of Naples. Over the centuries, this breeze has blown volcanic ash from Vesuvius inland to give the soil here a volcanic character.

After destemming and crushing, maceration took place for 10-15 days at temperatures of up to 26°C. Fermentation followed and then 10% of the wine was aged in American oak barriques and the rest in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks for eight months.

The wine is deep rugby red in colour with violet reflections. A complex and intense nose characterised by an ample bouquet with black fruity notes combined with spicy scents alongside clear notes of coffee and vanilla. On the palate tannins are firm and smooth with a clean and dry finish.