(2022) From the volcanic soils of Basilicata, 100% Aglianico aged 12 months, 50% in French oak, 50% in steel. A really pleasing, elegant but rounded nose of pure red plum and cherry, a little hint of something floral too. Mouthfilling and ripe fruit is offset by firm, really quite grippy tannins, and a solid core of rippling acidity that marries with the ripe fruit in the long, gently spicy finish.
(2018) From Basilicata, a fascinating volcanic region not far from Naples, this blend of two local aromatic varieties, Fiano and Greco, is a fabulous wine. Light gold in colour, it's light gold in flavour too: juicy golden delicious apple, nectarine and delightful floral nuances on the nose move seamlessly into pure peach and mango on the palate, ripe and so pure, before a delicate, gossamer lime acidity extends the finish.
(2017) From the volcanic soils of Basilicata in the south of Italy, this Primitivo has a bold crimson colour and an equally bold nose, almost Beaujolais like with its cherry and kirsch and lift of briar and flowers. I suspect at least some carbonic maceration here, the whole berry fermentation technique of much Beaujolais. Very punchy, very vibrant on the palate, its that cherry pit and rose-hip openness and summery appeal that is just lovely. There is tannin, and certainly some very good acidity to balance and freshen too, but that breezy, confident and honest fruitiness powers through. Delicious.
(2017) Made from 60% Aglianico and 40% Montepulciano grown in the volcanic Basilicata area of southern Italy, this is yet another deeply coloured, more traditional rosé. Vinous on the nose, a little cherry with a briary, herby touch, the palate is lovely: quite creamy in texture, a touch of meatiness and gastronomic dryness, savoury fruits and altogether dry, a touch rustic and grown-up, food-friendly in style.
(2012) Ash and cherry on the nose, there is lovely freshness and immediate complexity here. Delightfully sweet on the palate, the fruit is so smooth but so pure, with a touch of chocolate and real length. (My highest scoring wine of the competition)
(2012) Big, ripe, rich nose with a touch of currant and plenty of juicy cherry. The palate is creamy-textured and sweet, just flooded with sweet fruit and good balance into the finish. (One of my highest scoring wines)
(2001) From Basilicata in southern Italy, this is 100% Greco, one of my favourite white wine grapes of the deep south. The colour is pale gold, and the nose is lovely, with bags of citrus fruit and little sweet floral and spice notes, some confectionery and waxiness. On the palate filled with fat, almost oily lemon fruit that is chewy and dense, yet wonderfully fresh. Balanced, it is elegant and fine into a long finish, whilst staying driven by fruit.
