The superior 1999 Aglianico del Vulture La Firma was aged in 50% new oak. It is a modern-styled red that has not lost the typicity of this region of southern Italy known as Basilicata. It offers flamboyant aromas of pepper, earth, black fruits, sausage, and vanillin. Ripe, chewy, forceful, and dense, it should drink well for 7-8 years.
A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300, Vin Divino, Chicago, IL; tel. (773) 334-6700, and Estate Wines, Ltd., San Rafael, CA; tel. (415) 492-9411