July 26, 2022
20-Buck Bottle: Italian white for summer
This bottle pairs well with warm-weather fare
2018 Vulcanico Falanghina, Basilicata, Italy
Available at: Arthur’s Wine Shop at Belk, SouthPark
Price: $19.99
On the Nose: Orange zest, delicate basil, fresh apricot
On the Palate: Medium-light body, fresh and zingy, balanced acidity, crisp apple, light mineral note
On the Plate: Light summer fare – pasta with tomato and zucchini, herbs; sautéed chicken breast; salad with baby romaine, melon, tomato, fresh herbs.
Our Take: Falanghina has more body than a lot of Italian whites, with a lovely golden hue and longer finish. A good price for a very adaptable wine.
Fun Fact: Basilicata is a lesser known region of southern Italy, situated between Campania on the west and Puglia on the east. The vineyards are at 800-1,200 feet, so the dry heat of this area does not impact the growing season for a delicate white. The vineyards are in the shadow of the extinct volcano Vulture, which erupted about one million years ago. The soil is a complex mix of lava, clay, and mineral laden rocks which adds complexity to the wine.
