Macarico, Aglianico del Vulture “Macarì”

Southern Italy’s Aglianico grape is fully loaded: loaded with color; with tannins; and with flavor compounds.As such, Aglianico wines can sometimes be a little impegnativo (demanding) to drink. Today’s Aglianico del Vulture from Macarico doesn’t lack for power—in fact, I’d say it’s more structured and substantial than 99.9% percent of wines at this price point—but it also shows a level of grace and sophistication not readily associated with this variety. In my ongoing effort to convince people that Aglianico is one of Italy’s ‘noblest’ reds—right up there with Nebbiolo and Sangiovese—I wouldn’t hesitate to put “Macarì” forward as evidence. Not only does it capture the unmistakable essence of its volcanic, mountain terroir, it likely has even more to reveal over the next three to five years. That’s quite a thing to say about a $20 bottle of wine, but trust me on this one: It’s value-for-dollar is immeasurable.To repeat: Aglianico is important, and Basilicata’s Monte Vulture, which climb