Grifalco Aglianico del Vulture “Damaschito” Superiore DOCG 2017

VM 95 pts  

The 2017 Aglianico del Vulture Superiore Damaschito is dark and inward, slowly revealing a blend of flowery underbrush, ash, grilled sage and freshly sliced plums. This is velvety, nearly weighty in feel; yet balance is maintained through bright acidity, as a pleasant burst of inner sweetness gives way to mineral-laced black fruits and inner herbal tones settle upon the senses. The 2017 finishes long and balsamic, tugging at the cheeks with youthful tension, as a web of fine tannins slowly clamp down, and nuances of salted licorice fade. If opening the Damaschito today, make sure to allow it to breathe for an hour or two before tasting. This is next level for the Grifalco estate.