Quarta Generazione

What to look for

• •Deep garnet colour with a brick rim from age
• •Aromas of dark cherry, dried plum and black pepper
• •Firm grip on the palate that softens with air

About the producer

Quarta Generazione is a family winery in Basilicata, rooted in the southern Italian tradition of Aglianico production.

About the year

The 2015 vintage in Basilicata was warm and dry, producing ripe, concentrated wines. At nine years old, this wine has moved past its youthful power into a more rounded, savoury phase.

Grape characteristics

Aglianico is the great red grape of southern Italy. It has thick skin and high acidity, giving wines that are dense and age-worthy, often tasting austere when young but developing complexity over years.

About the region

Basilicata sits in the instep of Italy's boot, with volcanic soils and a continental climate at altitude. These conditions suit Aglianico, which needs warmth to ripen but benefits from cool nights that preserve freshness.

Tasting profile

Expect dark cherry, plum and black pepper, with notes of leather and dried herbs that come with age. The wine has weight and grip, with a long, savoury finish.

Serving suggestions

Serve at 16 to 18 degrees Celsius. Decant for thirty minutes before drinking to soften the tannins and open up the aromas. Use a large red wine glass.

Also pairs well with

• • grilled lamb chops
• • wild boar ragù
• • aged hard cheeses
• • roasted root vegetables
• • cured meat platters