The Top Wines of the Bascilicata Region
Bascilicata is composed of hills and mountains. It can be quite cold for the south of Italy. In the long run, this climate, and the generally poor soil, may lead to fine wines. At present there are two DOCs, Aglianico del Vulture and Terre dell'Alta Val d'Agri and two IGTs.Aglianico del Vulture vineyard
Aglianico del Vulture
Aglianico del Vulture is a ruby red wine with orange highlights on aging containing from 11.5% to 12.5% alcohol. It is produced in the north of Bascilicata from Aglianico red grape exclusively. Aglianico grapes grew in this area of Bascilicata even prior to the Roman Empire. The grapes for this wine are grown on the slopes of the volcano Mount Vulture. They are vinified in a several styles; first come the still wines: the basic Aglianico del Vulture is aged at least 12 months, the Vecchio is aged at least 36 months with a minimum of 24 months in wood, and the Riserva is aged at least 60 months with a minimum of 24 months in wood. The sparkling wines (Spumante) may be dry or sweet, and are aged for a minimum of 12 months. Depending on the style and the producer, these wines may be cellared for 6 to 20 years. Serve this wine slightly chilled if it is under 2 years of age, serve older wines at room temperature. In any case, open the bottle a few hours before serving.
I Love Italian Wine and Food - The Bascilicata Region for a review of an Aglianico del Vulture wine from this region.