Aglianico del Vulture Superiore: Basilicata’s Volcanic DOCG Wine Guide 2025

Quick Guide: Aglianico del Vulture Superiore DOCG

• Region: Basilicata, Southern Italy (Mount Vulture)
  
• Grape: 100% Aglianico
  
• Aging: Minimum 3 years (Superiore), 5 years (Riserva)
  
• Best Vintages: 2016, 2017, 2019
  
• Price Range: $30–$100+
  

Style: Age-worthy, structured, volcanic Italian red wine

What is Aglianico del Vulture Superiore DOCG?

Known as the “Barolo of the South,” Aglianico del Vulture Superiore DOCG is Basilicata’s flagship wine—intensely structured, volcanic in character, and capable of decades of aging. Crafted exclusively from the Aglianico grape, this wine captures the drama of its origin: the slopes of the dormant Mount Vulture volcano.

History and Origins

The story of Aglianico in Basilicata stretches back over 2,000 years to Greek settlers who brought the grape to southern Italy. The “del Vulture” designation was awarded DOC status in 1971, and in 2010, the stricter Superiore DOCG was established, recognizing the exceptional quality of wines aged longer and sourced from select vineyards. Today, it represents Basilicata’s most prestigious expression of Aglianico.

Mount Vulture Terroir: Volcanic Soils Shaping Aglianico Character

Mount Vulture, an extinct volcano in northern Basilicata, defines the terroir. Vineyards sit at 400–800 meters above sea level, benefiting from:

• Volcanic soils rich in minerals
  
• High diurnal range for slow, balanced ripening
  
• Continental climate with cooling mountain breezes
  

This combination produces wines with both power and finesse, marked by deep fruit, firm tannins, and striking minerality.

Aglianico Grape: Ancient Variety Behind Vulture’s Volcanic Wines

Aglianico is one of Italy’s most ancient grapes, often compared to Nebbiolo for its structure and longevity. In Vulture, it yields wines of profound depth:

• Color: Deep ruby with garnet hues
  
• Structure: Bold tannins, high acidity
  
• Flavors: Black cherry, plum, licorice, leather, smoke, and volcanic minerality
  

Winemaking & DOCG Regulations

To earn the Superiore DOCG label, wines must follow strict regulations:

• 100% Aglianico
  
• Minimum aging: 3 years (12 months in wood), 5 years for Riserva
  
• Alcohol: Minimum 13.5% ABV
  
• Yield control: Limited production for concentration
  

The result: wines built for longevity, complexity, and elegance.

Key Facts at a Glance

• DOCG Established: 2010
  
• Region: Basilicata, Italy
  
• Soil: Volcanic basalt and tufa
  
• Style: Structured, age-worthy red
  
• Longevity: 10–30 years in top vintages
  

Tasting Notes

Expect a volcanic signature:

• Aromas: Dark cherry, blackberry, violets, leather, and smoky earth
  
• Palate: Full-bodied with gripping tannins, refreshing acidity, and mineral precision
  
• Finish: Long, savory, and evolving with age into truffle, tobacco, and balsamic notes
  

Serving & Pairing

• Serving Temperature: 16–18°C (60–64°F)
  
• Best Glassware: Large-bowled red wine glass
  
• Food Pairings:
  
  • Lamb and game meats
    
  • Aged Pecorino cheese
    
  • Hearty pasta with ragù
    
  • Mushroom and truffle dishes
    

👉 Explore our Italian wine & food pairing guide for more ideas.

Best Aglianico del Vulture Superiore Producers

For buyers seeking benchmark bottles:

• Elena Fucci – Titolo (iconic single-vineyard expression)
  
• Paternoster (historic house, consistent quality)
  
• Cantine del Notaio (age-worthy, complex)
  
• Grifalco (organic, elegant style)
  
• D’Angelo (classic producer, great value)
  

Aglianico del Vulture vs Taurasi: Southern Italy’s Premium Aglianico Comparison

• Vulture (Basilicata): Higher altitude, volcanic soils, more mineral-driven and austere in youth.
  
• Taurasi (Campania): Warmer, softer tannins, more fruit-forward, earlier approachability.
  

How to Age Aglianico del Vulture: Cellar Storage Tips

• Cellar Potential: 20+ years for top producers
  
• Storage: Cool (12–14°C), consistent humidity
  
• Drinking Window: Enjoy structured vintages (2016, 2019) young, or age classics (2004, 2010) for secondary flavors
  

Where to Buy & Pricing

• Entry-level bottles: $25–40
  
• Mid-range producers: $40–70
  
• Top Riservas & collectible vintages: $80–150+
  

Available through specialized Italian wine importers, luxury retailers, and online shops such as Wine.com and Vivino.

Aglianico del Vulture Superiore Food Pairing Recipes

• Lamb with Aglianico Reduction
  
• Wild Boar Ragù
  
• Orecchiette with Mushrooms & Pecorino
  

👉 See our upcoming Southern Italian recipe collection for step-by-step pairings.

FAQ on Aglianico del Vulture Superiore DOCG

Is Aglianico del Vulture the same as Taurasi?
No—both are Aglianico-based but differ in terroir and style.

How long should I decant Aglianico del Vulture?
At least 2–3 hours for young vintages; aged bottles may need gentle decanting.

Is it worth cellaring?
Yes—many bottles evolve beautifully for decades.

Fun Facts & Cultural Notes

• Mount Vulture is home not just to vines, but to serene lakes formed in volcanic craters.
  
• Locals call Aglianico “il Barolo del Sud”—the Barolo of the South.
  
• Wine tourism in Basilicata is on the rise, with cellar tours combining volcanic landscapes, medieval villages, and rustic cuisine.
  

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