The 2008 Aglianico Sacravite is an immensely pleasing wine for the money. Dark, ferrous notes add complexity to the black fruit, smoke and tobacco notes. There is a wild, unrestrained quality that is quite appealing, but the wine needs food to show at its best. Still, those are relatively small critiques at this price point. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2014. Unfortunately I was only able to taste two new wines from D'Angelo this year. The estate remains a reference point for Basilicata. These two entry-level offerings make a great introduction to the house style.Importer: Domenico Valentino, New York, NY; tel. (212) 679-0822

The 2007 Aglianico Sacravite is a plump, juicy red with good varietal definition and balance at its level. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2012. D’Angelo is one of the historic producers of Aglianico in Basilicata.Importer: Domenico Valentino, New York, NY; tel. (212) 679-0822