88 2000 Basilisco Aglianico del Vulture 2/2/08 ($31)
14.5%alc
Color: Very deep, dense black cherry garnet. Looks to be approaching maturity (can just make out a slight hint of onion skin at the rim). Can't see through. (3.5) Bouquet: Bual Madeira along with sulfur, complementing dried cherries and cassis. The fruit comes off somewhat oxidized and tired compared to the rest of the wine, unfortunately. (2.0) Body: Excellent acidity and sufficient fruit in a light heavyweight package, coats the mouth soemwhat. (3.0) Flavor: Sulfur, bayleaf, oregano, black olives and black licorice combine with dried black cherry fruit. Could be more forward, but interesting. (3.0) Finish: Parallels flavor, but could have more length and intensity. (2.5)
Overall: A very interesting wine with a unique personality, characteristic of the appellation. Quality is excellent, but it does have flaws, mainly being slightly oxidized, which mars the fruit. I can't say for sure whether this is what the wine was from the start or if it was abused in storage (although I suspect the latter). Still interestingly compelling. At its best in 1-3 years? (14.0)