2016 Tenuta Cavalier Pepe Opera Mia Taurasi

The 2016 Tenuta Cavalier Pepe Opera Mia Taurasi DOCG is a powerful yet graceful expression of 100% Aglianico, crafted from hillside vineyards in the Irpinia district of Campania. Often referred to as the “Barolo of the South,” Taurasi is renowned for producing Italy’s longest-lived red wines, and the exceptional 2016 vintage showcases the appellation at its finest. Aged patiently in oak before bottle maturation, Opera Mia opens with layered aromas of black cherry, ripe plum, dried violets, tobacco, leather, cocoa, and sweet baking spices, underscored by hints of volcanic earth and balsamic herbs. The estate’s commitment to sustainable viticulture and careful cellar aging allows the complexity of Aglianico to shine while preserving freshness and elegance.

On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and beautifully structured, with firm yet polished tannins supporting concentrated flavors of dark berries, black currant, licorice, espresso, and dark chocolate. Bright acidity provides remarkable balance, leading to a long, savory finish marked by mineral notes, spice, and lingering floral accents. Although already expressive with decanting, the 2016 Opera Mia Taurasi has the structure to continue evolving gracefully for another decade or more. It is a superb companion to braised lamb, slow-cooked beef, wild boar ragù, grilled steaks, and aged Pecorino or Parmigiano-Reggiano, making it a memorable example of southern Italy’s most prestigious red wine.

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