-Gary Vaynerchuk, Winelibrary TV

Indigenous grape varietals are playing more important roles in the world's wines (despite the falsehoods promoted in the disingenuous movie, Mondovino), and the 2003 Aglianico Contado IGT is fashioned from 100% Aglianico that has been reclaimed by Riccardo Cotarella. It is a stunning Italian red. Notes of crushed rocks, acacia flowers, almond paste, blackberries, and currants jump from the glass of this opaque ruby/purple-colored offering. Boasting fabulous intensity, medium to full body, beautiful purity, and nicely integrated acidity, wood, and tannin, it was aged in both read more...large neutral oak ovals and smaller barrels. This wine represents incredible value for the money.    (hide)

"The 2005 Aglianico Contado is a great example of Aglianico from Molise. There is terrific vibrancy and focus here, despite the wine's big size, with generous fruit layered into black pepper and wild herbs. This full-bodied red is ready to go now, and should continue to improve over the following years. The estate gives the Contado 18 months in oak of various sizes. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2012."

Community Tasting Notes (average 86.9 pts. and median of 88 pts. in 20 notes)