Paternoster
Synthesi Aglianico del Vulture 2020
Aglianico del Vulture
Paternoster Synthesi Aglianico del Vulture is a youthful expression of Aglianico from various sections of the Vulture region. True to its name, “Synthesi” synthesizes the essence of this volcanic terroir, offering an accessible, well-priced introduction to the grape. Made entirely from Aglianico, it highlights the rich volcanic soils of the area, delivering vibrant fruit and mineral complexity. As a reflection of its origins, it captures the distinctive character of Mount Vulture, making it an excellent entry point for those seeking to explore Aglianico.
VINEYARD
The vineyards that ultimately lead to the creation of Synthesi are located at between 1300 to 2000 feet above sea level. The Paternoster estate encompasses 20 hectares (50 acres) of black soil of volcanic origin in different wine-growing districts in the countryside of the small town Barile. All of the vineyards lie on a natural terrace overlooking Mount Vulture, an extinct volcano, and have black soils of volcanic origin.
WINEMAKING
The grapes are typically harvested around the middle of October, and crushed, destemmed and vinified in stainless steel tanks. Maceration occurs over 12-15 days with occaisional pump overs and punching down of the cap. 80% is typically aged in large Slavonian oak barrels and 20% in neutral French barriques. 7-8 months' bottle aging.
VINTAGE
A warm and stable vintage, 2020 exhibited no notable frost periods which heavily impact the yields accordingly. Diurnal temperature swings preserved acidity, especially in higher elevation plots.
TASTING NOTE
A vibrant ruby red in color, it displays an ethereal, fragrantly fruity bouquet of blackberries, blueberries, wild berries and pepper. On the palate it is dry and velvety, with well-integrated tannins.
FOOD PAIRING
Excellent with all game and red meat dishes, as well as with mature cheeses
Color
Red
Blend %
100% Aglianico
Appellation
Aglianico del Vulture
Alcohol
13%
Suggested Retail Price
$28
Reviews
Vinous - May 29, 2024 "The 2020 Aglianico del Vulture Synthesi is dark and rich in the glass, with mentholated herbs giving way to plum sauce, medicinal black cherries, hints of undergrowth and dark chocolate. This is velvety in feel with cooling acidity to balance. Ripe red and black fruits swirl throughout, maintaining a mouthwatering freshness. The 2020 tapers off with a web of fine tannins and notes of clove that add a lovely bitter sensation toward the close. This is a beautifully balanced rendition of Pasternoster's Synthesi.."
James Suckling - June 10, 2024 "A tight and intense rendering of aglianico, with a bead of red fruit embellished with savory and spicy licorice notes that give the effect of restrained complexity. Medium-bodied with the same restraint on the palate, but it shows good overall balance and polish. Fine, well-integrated tannins and a long, tight finish. Enjoyable to drink now, but tempting to see how this will evolve in the bottle."
Wine Spectator - November 15, 2025 "A lively, peppery red, with lightly chewy tannins enmeshed in a core of red and black cherry fruit and wild rosemary flavors. An underpinning of ashy mineral pushes through and lingers on the finish."
Wine Enthusiast - December 31, 2025 "The nose offers aromas of pomegranate syrup, black plum, black cherry, leather and chili pepper, while the palate brings more sweet, dark fruits, herbs and spices, but also a metallic tang from notes of citrus and iron-rich earth. Tannins remain fierce, and acid is still vibrant."
Trade Materials
Other Wines by this Producer
Don Anselmo Aglianico del Vulture
Aglianico del Vulture DOC
Don Anselmo is a landmark wine made from 100% Aglianico grapes, the native varietal in Basilicata for which the region is renowned. It is dedicated to the winery's founder, Anselmo Paternoster, and represents the history, roots, and continued importance of the Paternoster family in the area of production of the wines, Vulture. The grapes come from small and particularly old vineyard parcels in Barile, located at 2000 feet above sea level, with naturally low yields (35- 40 quintals per hectare). The soil is volcanic, with a significant levels of lava and ash.
Vulcanico Falanghina
Basilicata IGT
Volcanic wines are currently one of the hot topics in the wine world, and the Vulcanico Falanghina is having its moment in the sun. The name “Vulcanico” highlights the fact that the grapes are harvested from vineyards near the base of Mount Vulture, an extinct volcano. The Vulcanico combines the freshness, balminess and delicacy of the Falanghina grape with the brightness and generosity that one would expect from a white wine from southern Italy. The grapes are fermented in stainless steel tanks for 10 days and remain in contact with the lees for approximately 5 months.
