Cantine del Notaio is in Rionero in Vulture, in Basilicata. The Giuratrabocchetti family runs it, and it has passed down through seven generations. The winery has worked with Aglianico del Vulture since 1998.
The vineyards sit on the slopes of Mount Vulture, an old volcano. The growing methods draw on biological and biodynamic criteria. Aglianico is an old grape here. It was known in ancient Greek times, and the Latin poet Horace wrote of it.
The cellars are what set the place apart. Natural caves dated 1600, cut into volcanic tufo rock, are used to age the wine. French oak barriques rest inside them under controlled temperature, humidity and ventilation. Alongside the reds, they make white, rosé and brut sparkling wines in white and rosé.
Not tasted yet
I haven't reviewed a wine from Cantine del Notaio yet. They're on my Top 100 list, which is built from awards.