The ancient Italian wine region of Basilicata is undergoing a revival thanks to a new generation of wine makers. Although wine has been commercially produced there for over a century it is not well known, but that may be about to change.

Basilicata is a mountainous region located in the south, stretching north from the arch of Italy’s boot.  Its climate is dominated by the Alps of the north rather than the warmer climate of the south.  The region’s wineries are scattered around the extinct Monte Vulture volcano.

The region is primarily a red grape growing region predominately consisting of:

• 42% Aglianico del Vulture
• 8% Sangiovese
• 5% Aglianico
• 4% Primitivo
• 3% Montepulciano
• 3% Italica
• 2% Malvasia
• 2% Trebbiano Giallo
• 1% each of
  • Malvasia Bianca di Basilicata
  • Barbera
  • Malvasia Nera di Brindisi
  • Moscato Giallo
  • Merlot
  • Cabernet Sauvignon

Basilicata has two major wines: Aglianico del Vulture Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC), established in 1971, and the Superiore Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG), which was established in 2010.  In total there are only four DOC wines and one DOCG wine produced in the region.

If you are interested in trying the wines of Basilicata, keep an eye for any of these though they are often difficult to come by:

• Aglianico del Vulture Superiore DOCG
• Aglianico del Vulture DOC
• Matera DOC
• Grottino di Roccanova
• Terre dell’Alta Val d’Agri DOC

You are more apt to find these wines in the specialty section of your wine store as they will not be available on a day-to-day basis.  Happy hunting!

Sláinte mhaith