This wine gave me some trouble partly because the rich and exuberant nature of the raisiny fruit in this vintage makes it harder to see the finer nuances. The 2015 Taurasi Fatica Contadina shows mature and evolved notes of black fruit, dried apple skin, spice, tarry smoke and campfire ash. There is some grilled tarragon as well heavier notes of smoked meat and cured tobacco. The open-knit approach is oxidative, and the tannins are still quite aggressive. This is a production of 20,000 bottles.

This is an interesting wine that defies the low expectations of this challenging vintage to deliver plenty of unexpected richness and dark fruit. The 2014 Taurasi Fatica Contadina is more concentrated and intense than I would have anticipated, showing deep layers of dark cherry and blackberry. Those aromas are quite smooth. However, the wine takes a different turn on the palate, where it shows some bitterness and textural grittiness that comes with age. I like the nose of this vintage but am less enthusiastic about the mouthfeel.

Warm spice and violet accents are an aromatic entry for this finely-knit, medium- to full-bodied red, playing off notes of plumped cherry, fig cake and dried dill and thyme. Lightly mouthwatering, with minerally hints of iron and tar expanding on the sculpted finish. Drink now through 2030. 2,150 cases made, 650 cases imported.??–AN??Region: Italy / South / Taurasi Select to Add

This is a delicate and carefully aged expression of Aglianico from one of the most experienced and influential wine producers of the area. The Terredora di Paolo 2013 Taurasi Fatica Contadina delivers plenty of dark fruit and measured spice, and it also shows a mildly creamy side with white chocolate or yogurt-covered almonds. The mouthfeel is sharp and tight, with good structure and dusty tannins.

Firm and focused, a tightly meshed red offering layers of dried cherry, a savory undertow of tarry mineral and leather, and accents of dried herb and mandarin orange peel. Long and chewy on the finish. Best from 2021 through 2029. 2,166 cases made, 280 cases imported.??–AN??Region: Italy / South / Taurasi Select to Add