This is a 100% Aglianico, the second wine of Ars Poetica’s trademark Aglianico del Vulture. A remarkable value, it has the flavor, body, complexity, structure, and finish of a Super Tuscan in the $30-45 range.

Named for the extinct volcano (Mt. Vulture) that overlooks the vineyards, Vulcano is a medium-bodied red wine displaying ripe fruit and surprising complexity. Deep, full aromas erupt (pun intended) from the glass at first sniff: black fruits, licorice, tobacco, tar, earth and some vegetal notes. Though it has earthy smells, in fact the nose is quite clean.

You’ll taste similar flavors along with juicy black raspberry and black cherry, with hints of licorice, blackcurrant, bell peppers and a bit of coffee bean. A rush of ripe tannins, and medium acidity balance out the fruit before the wine finishes. Though only about eight dollars, I’ll take this over a 50-dollar Super Tuscan any day, and spend the savings on two big T-bones to go with it. Match it with steak, blackened dishes, roast lamb, ripe cheeses and grilled meats. Choose this instead of a Chianti Classico Riserva (which would be double the price) — you won’t be disappointed.

a-8 t-9 b-8 fc-7 v-10 ~ 92 Points

Importer: Verdoni Imports

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