2022 Principato by Masseria Frattasi

Producer & Grape / Wine Info (Context)

• Producer / Estate: Masseria Frattasi, in Campania (Montesarchio).

• Grape / Blend: Principato is made from 100 % Aglianico (Aglianico Beneventano IGP)

• Viticulture & Vinification:

 – Soils: clay and sandstone.

 – Harvest: manual, in the second decade of September.

 – Fermentation & maceration: in stainless steel, controlled temperature, approx. 15 days.

 – Aging: in French oak barriques for 5–6 months.

• Alcohol Content & Service: The wine is quite powerful, with 16 % vol listed on the technical sheet.

• Official Organoleptic Description (Producer): “Ruby red with purple highlights. It has an elegant bouquet reminiscent of mascara and ripe plums with hints of spice and roasting. The flavour is full, pleasant and well-balanced with clear notes of cherry and a pleasantly long, spicy finish.”

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Tasting Note — 2022 Principato

Appearance

Deep ruby red with purple glints at the rim. The core is saturated and dense, indicating youthful intensity and concentration.

Nose / Bouquet

The bouquet is expressive yet refined. Initial aromas lean toward ripe plum, black cherry, and dark berry compote. These are complemented by a delicate underlay of sweet spice—vanilla, clove—and subtle roast or toast from the oak influence. There is also a hint of “mascara” nuance (i.e. a perfumed, cosmetic spice edge) as described by the producer. As the wine opens, secondary notes of leather, cocoa, and a faint dried herb / undergrowth character may develop.

Palate / Mouthfeel

On the palate, there is a satisfying fullness and warmth. The entry is generous, with flavors echoing dark cherry, plum, and a touch of black currant. Mid-palate, more structure emerges: firm but ripe tannins provide backbone, while the acidity is enough to keep the wine from feeling heavy. Oak–derived spice (vanilla, toast) and a light roast note persist into the midsection. The finish is fairly long, lingering on spiced cherry, mild cocoa, and a touch of savory leather.

Balance & Structure

This is a robust and bold Aglianico with strong fruit presence, accompanied by oak influence and structural firmness. Given its alcohol and concentration, it is not lightweight, but the acidity and tannic support give it balance for aging and drinking. The oak, given the relatively short 5–6 months of barrique aging, is present but not overbearing.

Evolution / Cellaring Potential

Although drinkable now (especially with some decanting), the 2022 Principato should benefit from additional bottle time. Over the next 5–10 years, one can expect further integration of the oak, deepening of tertiary aromas (leather, forest floor, underbrush), smoothing of tannins, and a more elegant interplay between fruit and savory layers.

Suggested Food Pairings

• Rich, hearty meat dishes (braised beef, lamb, stews)

• Game (venison, boar)

• Roasts or grilled red meats

• Aged cheeses (Pecorino, Parmigiano, etc.)

• Dishes with mushrooms, truffles, or savory sauces