Aglianico del Vulture DOC

[ah-LYAH-nee-koh del VOOL-too-reh] The only doc zone in Italy's basilicata region. Although this DOC makes amabile and spumante wines, it's the still, dry wines that are most highly regarded. These red wines are made from the aglianico grape that's grown here and in the neighboring region of campania (see taurasi doc). The better vineyards are on the east slope of Monte Vulture, an extinct volcano in the northern part of Basilicata. When young, the Aglianico del Vulture wines are noted for their roughness which is due to high tannins noticeable acidity and a dense concentration of flavors. As they mature, these wines can show great balance with subtle fruit flavors and earthy, tarry and chocolaty characteristics. They can age for 7 to 10 years or longer.