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Vigneti del Vulture is located in Basilicata, the heart of the Italian wine region known as Aglianico del Vulture which gets its name from the nearby inactive volcano, Monte Vulture. The region is known for powerful red wines with firm structures and rich, elegant layers of flavor. “The eruptions of the past centuries leave on the ground a lava from the wealth of minerals that give the grapes a great complexity” explains chief winemaker Dennis Verdecchia.

2017’s Chairman’s Trophy winner of World Dry Riesling comes from one of the most noteworthy producers in New York, Wagner Vineyards. Their 95 Point 2015 Dry Riesling from the Finger Lakes exemplifies the quality that this region is capable of, and why the Finger Lakes have become one of the hottest new wine regions in the world. 

Cabernet Franc is best known for its value in Bordeaux blends, adding acidity, tannin, and savory bell pepper flavors. Occasionally, it has been known to make a 100% varietal wine in the Loire Valley of France, where it produces easy drinking medium bodied wines that lean toward dry earthy flavors and hints of spice. Now, following in the footsteps of another famous Bordeaux blending grape, Malbec, it seems to be coming into its own as a stand alone grape for American winemakers.