Villa Raiano Taurasi Aglianico DOCG 2018

Villa Raiano Taurasi Aglianico DOCG is a powerful and age-worthy red wine from Campania, showcasing the depth and complexity of the Aglianico grape. Aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry, and plum are layered with notes of leather, smoke, and spices. The palate is full-bodied with firm tannins, vibrant acidity, and flavours of dark fruits, licorice, and earthy undertones, leading to a long, elegant finish. This Taurasi is a benchmark example of one of Italy’s finest red wines, ideal for special occasions and long-term cellaring.

*Every effort is made to ensure the current vintage is accurate; however, variations can occur. If you are after a specific vintage, please contact us prior to ordering.

Type: Red Wine
Style: Full-bodied, Complex
Grape Varietal: Aglianico
Tastes Like: Comparable to a bold Cabernet Sauvignon, with black cherries, plums, and notes of leather and tobacco
Alcohol Percentage: 14%
Closure: Cork
Size: 750mL
Appellation: Taurasi DOCG
Region: Campania, Italy
Terroir: Volcanic soils with a temperate Mediterranean climate
Aging: Aged in oak barrels for 18 months
Serving Temperature: 18℃ – Serve at room temperature

Villa Raiano is a renowned Campanian winery known for its dedication to producing high-quality wines that reflect the rich history and unique terroir of the region. Located in the hills of Irpinia, the winery combines traditional winemaking techniques with modern innovations to craft expressive and age-worthy wines. Their Taurasi Aglianico DOCG is a flagship wine, representing the pinnacle of their winemaking expertise and the bold character of the Aglianico grape.

Meat: Perfect with slow-braised beef, osso buco, or grilled lamb chops
Pasta: Complements rich ragù, baked ziti, or pasta alla Genovese
Vegetarian: Pairs beautifully with mushroom lasagne or eggplant parmigiana
International: Enjoy with Middle Eastern lamb kofta or Moroccan tagine

Pecorino: Salty and nutty, balances the wine’s bold tannins
Caciocavallo: Soft and tangy, complements the wine’s earthy profile
Parmigiano-Reggiano: Hard and savoury, enhances the wine’s structure
Aged Gouda: Rich and caramelised, pairs beautifully with the wine’s dark fruit notes

Melanzane al Forno (Baked Eggplant with Tomato, Herbs & Pecorino)

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggplants, sliced lengthways
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 700g passata or crushed tomatoes
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 small handful fresh basil, torn
• 60g grated Pecorino Romano
• Salt and cracked black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Brush the eggplant slices with olive oil, season lightly, and roast for 20 minutes until soft and lightly golden.
3. Meanwhile, sauté the garlic in a little olive oil until fragrant, then add the tomato paste and cook briefly.
4. Stir in the passata and oregano and simmer gently for 20 minutes until thick and rich.
5. Layer the roasted eggplant with the tomato sauce in the baking dish, finishing with grated Pecorino.
6. Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbling and lightly caramelised on top.
7. Rest briefly before serving, finishing with fresh basil.

The slow-baked eggplant and concentrated tomato sauce echo Taurasi’s earthy depth and savoury complexity, while the wine’s acidity cuts through the richness and softens its firm tannins.