Mettler Family Vineyards, Lodi (California) Aglianico 2017

 Aglianico is considered by experts as one of the three greatest grape varieties of Italy, along with Nebbiolo and Sangiovese, though it is often overshadowed simply because it hails from the less economically developed south, near Naples.  This rendition shows beautifully, with great balance between ripe richness stemming from intense California sunshine and fresh acidity lent by the variety itself.  There’s plenty of tannin and wood to provide structure, but this isn’t punishing in its youth as examples from Campania are routinely, so aeration and pairing with robust foods make this a candidate for immediate enjoyment — or a full decade of cellar development.   A Double Gold Award winner at the 2020 Toast of the Coast International Wine Competition.