We at Sokolin pride ourselves on bringing you not only the most sought-after and well-known wines, but also less-familiar, hidden gems from across the world. Today’s wine, the 2007 Bisceglia Gudarra Aglianico del Vulture Riserva, is one example. Hailing from Basilicata, Robert Parker’s “favorite underdog Italian region”, this wine is one defined by its terroir. Produced on Mount Vulture, an extinct volcano, the vines dig deep into the thick ancient ash to produce wines of incredible depth. To taste this wine is to experience both a far-away place and an ancient time. “Wine has given me the ability to bring a little piece of Basilicata to countries all over the world,” says owner Mario Bisceglia.
The grape itself, Aglianico, also has a long history. The longest, perhaps, of all commercial wines according to Denis Dubourdieu, who points to the renowned Falernian wine that was coveted by the Romans from at least the 1st century B.C. One of the last grape varieties to ripen and be harvested each year in Italy, Aglianico, a naturally tannic and highly acidic grape, thrives off the heat of Southern Italian sun and dark soil. The resulting wines are sometimes referred to as the “Barolos of the South” due to their rich, dense mouthfeel and long aging potential. Today’s example is a Riserva as well, meaning its depth and complexity have been strengthened even more by at least two years of oak aging and an additional three in bottle.
The wine in the glass is an opaque, almost black red. The nose however is not as brooding, with sweet, brambly berry, hot stone, and a lifted dark floral note. The wine wears its alcohol well, giving richness instead of heat, with currant, baking spice, mandarin and chocolate. Ripe, raisined fruit transforming into apple peel makes for a lasting, delicious finish structured by smooth tannin. For a wine that has a reputation for firm power, I was surprised by how approachable it was on the palate. But make no mistake, this wine has the stuffing to stand up to heavier meat and mushroom based dishes. A hearty winter stew or a roast of lamb with garlic potatoes would pair fantastically. To go with a traditional Basilicata specialty, try ciammotta, a dish of eggplant, peppers, and potatoes in a tomato sauce.
It’s fitting that Gudarra means “to be enjoyed” in the local Italian, since the 2007 Bisceglia Gudarrà Aglianico del Vulture Riserva is drinking great now and will continue to age gracefully for years. You can enjoy this taste of Italy today for only $27.99!