Why Basilicata Wine Stands Apart from Other Italian Wines
1. 🌋 Volcanic Soil from Mount Vulture
The Vulture region in northern Basilicata is shaped by an extinct volcano — and it’s this volcanic soil that gives the area’s wines their bold, mineral-rich profile. Volcanic earth is packed with nutrients and natural drainage, making it ideal for growing complex, structured reds like Aglianico del Vulture, often called the “Barolo of the South.”
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2. 🍇 Ancient Grape Varieties and Low Yields
Unlike commercial wine regions, Basilicata prioritises quality over quantity. Native grape varieties like Aglianico have been cultivated since Roman times, and many vines are over 50 years old. These low-yielding vines produce deeply flavoured, tannic wines that age exceptionally well.
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3. 🏔️ Microclimates and Altitude
Basilicata’s vineyards often sit at 400–600m altitude, creating significant day–night temperature swings that preserve acidity and structure. Combined with cool mountain air and dry summers, this makes Basilicata wine more elegant, earthy, and age-worthy than many southern counterparts.
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🖼️ Alt Descriptions for 3 Article Images
- “Sunset over the volcanic slopes of Mount Vulture with vineyards in foreground.”
- “Close-up of Aglianico grapes hanging from old vines in Basilicata.”
“Bottles of Aglianico del Vulture lined up in a stone cellar with local labels.”
