The 2019 Aglianco del Vulture is stunning. it opens with a bit of exotic flair, mixing smoky plum and lavender with animal musk, crushed ashen stone and a wiff of sour citrus that lights up the senses. Then it enters the palate silky and pliant, quickly gaining in youthful tanic tension, but not before providing a preview of mentholated herbal tones and depths of mineral-laden dark fruits that will take center stage after a few years of cellaring. This finished incredibly long yet structured, leaving a staining of primary concentration to linger under an air of pretty florals and savory spice. I believe that the 2019 may one day rank among the best vintages ever produced of Elena Fucci's Titolo.

Once an unexpected sensation, Elena Fucci's Titolo Aglianico has become a point of reference, as the 2019 vintage only further confirms. The notes of tar and roses notes that have lent this grape its nickname are immediately apparent on the nose, underpinned with dark berries and brambles. A wine that manages to feel both lithe and substantial and that could take another decade of age in stride.