La Quercia Aglianico 2024

This is one of TWM’s favorite brands, and every year we look forward to receiving a few cases of this rare Aglianico from the Abruzzo region. The Aglianico grape is almost ubiquitous in Italy's western regions, such as Campania and Basilicata, but it’s quite rare on the eastern coast of Apulia. Here, Antonio Lamona farms a small parcel planted in clay soils close to the coast. This combination of soils and climate results in a less assertive example than those grown in the volcanic soils farther west. It lends the wine a plumpness and texture that make it the perfect Tuesday night wine—seriously versatile, pairing well with almost anything.

Give this one a splash in the decanter to release a burst of blueberry and blackberry fruits, kissed with dark plum and woodsmoke aromas. Thanks to the clay soils, the texture is friendlier, and while there are some tannins, they are soft and nicely integrated. Enjoy this wine with smoked baby back ribs, noodles with peanut sauce, or smash burgers.