Basilicata

DOC for red wine in the Basilicata region in Italy – it is the only one in the region. The zone includes the communes of Aderenza, Banzi, Barile, Forenza, Genzano di Lucania, Ginestra, Lavello, Maschito, Melfi, Palazzo San Gervasio, Rapolla, Rionero in Vulture, Ripacandida and Venosa in Potenza province. The vineyards are located at an altitude of up to 700 metres above sea level on the slopes of the extinct Monte Vulture volcano, which gave its name to the zone, the vineyard holdings are split among around a thousand small holdings. Wine has been produced here since ancient times, it was served preferentially at aristocratic houses in medieval times. The wine is a pure varietal made from 100% Aglianico, it has a ruby to garnet red colour, and is available in dry (secco) and semi-sweet (amabile) variants. It resembles the Taurasi from Campania, which is the neighbouring region to the North. If aged for three years, it may be called Vecchio, and Riserva if aged for five years. A dry Spumante Naturale is also produced in the region.