TERRA DI LAVORO

I purchased the 2008 Terra di Lavoro upon release for a price that seems amazing for what’s in the bottle today, and then buried it deep in my cellar. In 2018, I opened the first of my six-pack, and I decided that the wine still needed a little more time. Well, that time is now, as the 2008 is just entering its prime drinking window.With its deep crimson color and beguiling bouquet that mixes fresh cracked black pepper, plums, sandalwood, ashen earth and sweet smoke, the 2008 Terra di Lavoro makes itself known. The longer this sits in the glass, and with each swirl, the more it gains in volume and depth. Today, the 2008 is velvety-smooth, having shaken off the gruff tannins of its youth to reveal an elegant display of ripe blackberries laced with hints of tobacco and cocoa. The acidity is spot-on, making the mouth water even as the intense primary fruit within continues to drench the palate. Classically dry and harmonious, the 2008 tapers off with noble structure and tarry black fruits that seem to linger for well over a minute, proving to be well worth the twelve years it took to find this gorgeous place in its drinking window. There’s no rush here. While quite enjoyable today, I’m intrigued to see what another five years will bring. Drinking range: 2021 - 2038 Rating: 96 Eric Guido, www.vinous.com (Aug 2021)