At a glance

Producer

Vigneti del Vulture

Region

Basilicata, Italy

Grape variety

Aglianico

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$30-$60 USD

Tasting profile

Evolved aromas of dried black fruit, leather, tobacco, licorice, underbrush, balsamic, mineral; savory, earthy palate with resolved structure.

Evolution: Fruit has receded, greater emphasis on earthy, spicy, and mineral notes. Tertiary development dominates.

At peak: At or just past peak; complexity and harmony are present, but fading primary fruit signals drinking up.

Structure

Acidity

Medium-plus; gives freshness and longevity.

Tannins

Firm, now well-integrated and softened after over a decade in bottle.

Alcohol

14.5% ABV (typical for the wine and vintage).

Aging potential

High aging potential at release; now at late maturity, with remaining life for top-stored bottles.

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2017 to 2022

Optimal window

2015 to 2024

Current status

Approaching end of optimal maturity; mature but well-preserved bottles still excellent.

Current condition

Likely fully mature, displaying tertiary complexity. Structure intact if well-cellared, but further aging is not advised.

Aglianico del Vulture is highly age-worthy, and top bottlings like Piano del Cerro develop complex secondary and tertiary nuances after 10-15 years. The 2009 vintage now shows these mature characteristics, and although the wine remains compelling, further aging will risk loss of freshness and fruit intensity.

Food pairing

Braised lamb shanks, wild boar ragu, mature hard cheeses, porcini mushroom risotto, hearty game dishes.

Serving

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — The wine has firm tannins that are now well-integrated, but decanting will help to further open up its aromas and flavors, enhancing the overall drinking experience.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Vigneti del Vulture employs integrated pest management, cover cropping, and minimal synthetic intervention in vineyards. Emphasis on sustainable water use and reduction of chemical herbicides. Winery uses lightweight glass and partially recycled cardboard packaging. Limited on-site solar energy and high-efficiency lighting are in use.

While Vigneti del Vulture demonstrates above-average sustainability by local Italian standards—sustainable viticulture, thoughtful resource management, and reduced packaging—there is no formal organic or biodynamic certification for the 2009 Piano del Cerro. The estate's adoption of modern efficiency measures and their reduction in chemical use earn it a solid sustainability score, but reliance on international transport for sales increases the overall carbon footprint. The winery would rate higher if more renewable energy or zero-emissions transport/logistics were part of the chain.