Campania is located at the front of the chin of the boot of Italy and encompasses the city of Naples and the subregion Sannio.  A region with a long wine history, Campania has been referred to as an archaeological dig of ancient grapevines: Aglianico, Falanghina, Fiano, Falernum, and Asprinio, to name of few.  Despite the fertile volcanic and alluvial soils, the region’s yields remain low.  The climate ranges from hot and dry along the coast to cool and damp in the hills.  Although drought may affect coastal vines, most hilly zones receive ample precipitation.

The Mastroberardino family winery was established in the 1750s by winemaker Pietro di Mastro Berardino.  The family has long championed the use of indigenous varieties like Falanghina and is considered a guardian of the ancient winemaking heritage of Campania.  Mirabella Vineyard, where the grapes are grown for this wine, consists of sandy as well as volcanic soils.

Radici means ‘roots’ in Italian, which signifies Mastroberardino’s devotion to safeguarding the indigenous varieties of ancient Irpinia. This classic red is the result of painstaking research into exposure, chemical and physical characteristics of this region’s unique volcanic terroir and topography.

TASTING NOTES

Wine Spectator 91 Points:  Fresh and focused, this elegant, medium- to full-bodied version features plush tannins married to ripe cherry and raspberry fruit. A subtle underpinning of loamy earth and an aromatic skein of saffron and spice unravels on the long finish. Drink now through 2029. 5,830 cases made, 900 cases imported. — AN

FOOD PAIRING

Enjoy with game, lamb, beans and lentils. Pasta with tomato sauce, pizza, and eggplant dishes would be good food partners as well.

Lamb, Pizza, Tomato Sauce, Vegetables