The Cellar
Taurasi
The short answer
Taurasi is a powerful, age-worthy red wine from Italy's Campania region, produced from the Aglianico grape. Known for its firm tannins and complex dark fruit notes, it is one of Southern Italy's most celebrated and structured wines.
- Style
- Age-worthy Aglianico, Campania
- Glass
- Large red wine glass
- Strength
- 13.5% – 15%
Where it comes from
Aglianico is an ancient grape variety, and the wines from the Taurasi area have long been prized. The region was granted Italy's prestigious DOCG status in 1993, recognizing its consistent high quality and historical significance in Southern Italian viticulture.
What you need
- 750ml bottle of Taurasi DOCG
- Serving temperature: 64°F / 18°C
How Larry builds it
- 01
Temperature and Preparation. Serve at a cool room temperature of 64°F (18°C). These wines are built for long-term storage, so handle older bottles with care.
- 02
Decanting. Decant for at least one hour, especially for younger vintages. The Aglianico grape has high tannins that need oxygen to soften and reveal notes of plum, cherry, and leather.
- 03
Serving and Pairing. Pour into a large-bowled red wine glass. Taurasi's robust structure demands rich, savory foods like braised beef, game meats, or earthy mushroom dishes.
Larry’s rule: Southern Italy's answer to Barolo. Pour it for people who think the south can't do serious.
Variations worth making
Taurasi Riserva
A special designation that requires a minimum of four years of aging before release, including at least 18 months in wooden barrels.
Irpinia Aglianico DOC
A more approachable, often younger, and less expensive expression of the Aglianico grape from the same general volcanic area in Campania.
Questions people ask
Is Taurasi a heavy wine?
Yes, it is typically full-bodied with significant tannins and high acidity, which gives it a powerful structure and incredible longevity.
How long should I age it?
While it must be aged for 3 years before release, most examples benefit from at least 5-10 years of bottle age to soften and can evolve for 20 years or more.
What does its volcanic soil contribute?
The volcanic soils of the Irpinia region are believed to contribute a distinct mineral, savory, and sometimes smoky character to the wine's flavor profile.
Why is it compared to Barolo?
It shares a similar profile of high acidity and powerful tannins with Barolo (made from Nebbiolo), leading to a comparable structure and aging potential.
What to eat with it
Pour it like Larry
The decanters, openers and glasses Larry keeps behind the bar.
Le Chateau Hand-Blown Crystal Wine Decanter with AeratorView on Amazon →
RBT Wine Decanter with Sediment Strainer & AeratorView on Amazon →
Chateau La Derive Swan Decanter Gift SetView on Amazon →
1800ml Lead-Free Crystal Wine Decanter SetView on Amazon →
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Order Taurasi with sausage and peppers at the spots on Larry’s lists:
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Quoting or citing this drink? Credit “Uncle Larry Adventures” and link to https://unclelarryadventures.com/beverages/taurasi.