Basilicata, a region located in southern Italy, is known for its rugged landscape and traditional, hearty cuisine. The region is also home to several unique and delicious wines, made from native grape varieties grown in the area’s sun-drenched vineyards.
In this chapter, we’ll explore the unique wine and food culture of Basilicata, a region located in southern Italy. Known for its rugged landscape and rich history, Basilicata is also home to some of Italy’s most distinctive wines and traditional dishes. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a food lover, Basilicata has something special to offer. So, let’s dive in and discover the vineyards, wines, and culinary delights of this fascinating region.
Vineyards and Wine in Basilicata
Basilicata is home to some of the oldest vineyards in Italy, with winemaking dating back to the Greek and Roman periods. Located in the southern region of Italy, Basilicata is characterized by its rugged terrain, mountainous landscapes, and a unique microclimate that is influenced by the nearby sea. The region’s hot summers, mild winters, and low rainfall create ideal growing conditions for grapes.
The vineyards of Basilicata are predominantly located in the province of Matera and Potenza. The region’s mountainous terrain and rocky soils require hard work and dedication from winemakers to cultivate the vines. The most common grape varieties grown in Basilicata are Aglianico and Malvasia, which have been cultivated in the region for centuries. Aglianico, in particular, is considered to be the region’s most important grape variety.
The Aglianico grape thrives in the volcanic soils of Basilicata, producing full-bodied red wines with high tannins and acidity. The wine is known for its complexity, with flavors of dark fruit, leather, and spice. Malvasia, on the other hand, is used to produce sweet and aromatic white wines.
Winemaking in Basilicata has a long and storied history, with techniques and traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation. Today, winemakers in the region continue to use traditional methods to produce unique and high-quality wines that reflect the region’s terroir and character.
Wine Styles in Basilicata
Basilicata’s winemaking history and geography have shaped a distinct wine style in the region. From the full-bodied Aglianico to the refreshing Moscato, the wine styles of Basilicata have something to offer for everyone.
Aglianico is the flagship grape of the region and is often referred to as the “Barolo of the South”. This grape produces a full-bodied red wine with intense tannins, high acidity, and complex flavors of dark fruit, black pepper, and leather. Aglianico del Vulture DOC is the most famous wine produced in Basilicata and is considered one of Italy’s finest wines.
Piedirosso is another red grape variety that is found in Basilicata. This grape is often blended with Aglianico to soften the tannins and add a fruity aroma to the wine.
On the other hand, Moscato is a white grape variety that produces a light, refreshing, and aromatic wine. This wine has floral and fruity notes with a touch of sweetness. Moscato is often enjoyed as a dessert wine or with light appetizers.
In addition to these grapes, Basilicata also produces white wines made from Malvasia Bianca and Greco Bianco grapes. Malvasia Bianca produces a dry and crisp wine with citrus and floral notes, while Greco Bianco produces a rich and full-bodied wine with flavors of tropical fruit, honey, and almonds.
Basilicata’s wineries also produce Rosato wines, which are made from Aglianico grapes and have a vibrant pink color and a crisp acidity. These wines are perfect for pairing with local seafood and vegetable dishes.
Overall, the wine styles of Basilicata are unique and flavorful, representing the region’s rich history and natural beauty.
Typical Wine and Food Pairings in Basilicata
In Basilicata, the cuisine and wine culture are deeply intertwined, and locals take pride in pairing their traditional dishes with the perfect wine. Here are some typical wine and food pairings you might encounter when visiting the region:
- Aglianico del Vulture with roasted meat: Aglianico is the signature grape of Basilicata, and its most famous expression is Aglianico del Vulture. This bold, full-bodied wine with its rich tannins and notes of black fruit is a perfect match for hearty meat dishes such as roasted lamb or beef.
- Primitivo di Matera with spicy food: This red wine made from the Primitivo grape has a spicy and fruity flavor that pairs well with spicy dishes like peperoni cruschi (crispy, dried peppers) and spicy sausage.
- Greco di Matera with seafood: Basilicata’s white wine, Greco di Matera, has a crisp acidity and citrus notes that complement seafood dishes like grilled octopus, shrimp scampi, and linguine alle vongole (linguine with clams).
- Moscato di Tricarico with desserts: This sweet dessert wine has a floral aroma and honeyed notes that pair well with local sweet treats like dolce di noci (walnut cake) and pastiera di grano (sweet ricotta and wheat pie).
- Aglianico Rosato with antipasti: Made from the same Aglianico grape as the red Aglianico del Vulture, this rosé wine has a fresh and fruity flavor that makes it a perfect pairing for antipasti platters featuring local meats, cheeses, and vegetables.
When dining in Basilicata, don’t be afraid to ask your server for recommendations on wine pairings for your meal. They will be happy to guide you through the many delicious options available.
Conclusion
Basilicata is a hidden gem when it comes to wine and food in Italy. This southern region has a unique terroir that produces exceptional and distinct wines such as Aglianico del Vulture and Greco Bianco. The local winemakers take pride in their craft and work hard to produce wines that reflect the character of the land.
Basilicata’s cuisine is just as impressive, featuring hearty dishes that are perfect for pairing with the region’s wines. From meat dishes like lamb, pork, and beef to pasta dishes with spicy tomato sauces, the cuisine of Basilicata offers a depth of flavor that is not to be missed.
Overall, a visit to Basilicata offers the opportunity to explore an off-the-beaten-path wine region and taste some truly unique and delicious wines while enjoying the local cuisine. Whether you’re a wine lover or a foodie, Basilicata has something for everyone to enjoy.
Photo by sterlinglanier Lanier on Unsplash
