Cantine Antonio Caggiano Irpinia Campi Taurasini Salae Domini 2021

Appellation: Irpinia Campi Taurasini DOC

Grape Variety: 100% Aglianico

Region: Taurasi area, Irpinia – Campania, Italy

Alcohol: ~14%

Aging: Fermentation in stainless steel followed by 8–10 months in French oak barriques (Tronçais, Allier, Vosges).

Visual

Deep, intense ruby red with garnet reflections, indicating youthful vigor yet already hinting at the structural density typical of Aglianico grown in the Taurasi hills.

Nose

Expressive and layered bouquet.

Primary aromas reveal ripe red and dark fruits—marasca cherry, plum, and blackberry—followed by spicy nuances, licorice, and subtle balsamic tones. With aeration, hints of roasted nuts, tar, and Mediterranean herbs emerge, reflecting both varietal character and measured oak influence.

Palate

Full-bodied yet balanced, with a dense, structured mouthfeel. The wine opens with ripe dark fruit and savory spice before evolving toward graphite, balsamic herbs, and licorice. Firm but well-integrated tannins and lively acidity provide structure and freshness, supporting the wine’s concentration and alcohol.

Finish

Long and persistent, marked by dark cherry, spice, and mineral notes, with a lingering impression of licorice and earthy complexity.

Food Pairing

Ideal with robust dishes such as:

• Braised beef or lamb shank

• Game (wild boar, venison)

• Aged cheeses

• Slow-roasted meats with Mediterranean herbs

Serving & Cellaring

• Serving temperature: 16–18 °C

• Decanting: 30–60 minutes recommended

• Cellaring potential: Now through ~2030, with further integration of tannins expected over time.

Wine Voyager Perspective (stylistic note)

—Salae Domini sits stylistically between youthful Irpinia Aglianico and full Taurasi DOCG. It carries the volcanic austerity and tannic backbone of the Taurasi zone, but with earlier accessibility and a more fruit-forward profile.