Meet the Winemaker: Donato d'Angelo, Basilicata and Aglianico

In 1972 Donato D'Angelo began his first harvest of Aglianico, marking the start of a journey that would establish him as an icon of Aglianico del Vulture worldwide. Emiliana, who works with her father on the winemaking side, will be our host for this evening.

Today Azienda Agricola Donato D'Angelo, spanning 20ha of vineyards in the most renowned areas of Vulture - an ancient, extinct volcano in the Basilicata region - remains a family-run business dedicated to producing wines that reflect the true essence of this unique territory. Donato, Filomena and Emiliana Aurora, all skilled oenologists, are deeply involved in the winemaking process, while Erminia Alessandra manages sales and all commercial operations. Through their commitment, perseverance and passion, they continue to preserve and promote the legacy of Vulture's exceptional wines.

The winery is located in the heart of the Vulture, an extinct volcano that last erupted around 150,000 years ago and lends its name to the Aglianico del Vulture AOC. Today Vulture rises to about 1,326 metres and its volcanic craters have transformed into the Monticchio lakes. The Vulture’s final eruption left the soil rich in lapilli and ash, adding valuable minerals that give the land its exceptional complexity and fertility, further enhanced by a unique microclimate.

Despite its southern location, Vulture experiences cold winters, mild summers and a wide temperature range, creating ideal conditions for quality viticulture.

Wines on tasting (6):

Ede Bianco, Basilicata IGT Bianco (100% Fiano)

Ede Rosato, Basilicata IGT Rosato (100% Syrah)

Calice, Aglianico del Vulture DOC (100% Aglianico)

Donato D'Angelo, Aglianico del Vulture DOC (100% Aglianico)

Balconara, Basilicata IGT Rosso (50% Aglianico, 50% Cabernet Sauvignon)

Final aged Aglianico wine tbc