Carmine Crocco 2020

While it’s often overshadowed by more famous regions like Tuscany and Piedmont, southern Italy’s Basilicata produces some of the country’s finest red wines. Basilicata’s winemaking history dates back over 1,000 years, but in recent decades, investment from passionate local winemakers has seen quality climb higher than ever. The D’Angelo family, makers of Carmine Crocco, are leading the charge.

“One of the oldest, most established wineries, D’Angelo walks a fine line between tradition and innovation” (Wine Enthusiast). Founded in 1924, the D’Angelo family estate was one of the first to craft wines under the Aglianico del Vulture DOC, Basilicata’s most prized appellation. Today, the fourth generation is at the helm—Erminia D’Angelo runs the business operations, while her brother Rocco makes the wine and manages the vineyards.

Named after a famous 19th-century outlaw, soldier and writer, Carmine Crocco showcases Basilicata’s signature Aglianico grape. Rocco selected the best bunches from their family vineyards, which grow on the slopes of dormant volcanos. The high altitude helps retain freshness, while the volcanic soils develop wonderful complexity in the grapes. Back in the winery, Rocco aged the wine for six months in Slavonian oak barrels, which imparted spice notes to its ripe berry, floral and herbal notes.

Given Rocco’s care and attention, it should come as no surprise that Carmine Crocco has earned a gold medal from Gilbert & Gaillard and 90 points from critic James Suckling. He wrote, “Cherries, plum stones, clay and olives on the nose...clean and savory, with bright acidity and gently grainy tannins. Delicious now.”

Carmine Crocco is definitely a red wine to serve with food. We recommend grilled sausages, hearty pastas or aged cheeses. However you plan to enjoy it, order soon to secure your share.