Grifalco: A Rising Generation in Vulture

August 1, 2025

In the heart of Basilicata’s volcanic hills, a new generation is shaping the future of Aglianico del Vulture. At Grifalco, brothers Andrea and Lorenzo Piccin have taken the reins of their family estate—Andrea now leads the commercial side of the business, while Lorenzo drives the winemaking. Hear from Lorenzo himself on this Italian Wine Podcast episode. Together, they are quickly emerging as leaders in one of southern Italy’s most promising appellations, all before turning 35.

Founded in 2004 by Fabrizio and Cecilia Piccin, Grifalco was born out of a leap of faith. The couple left Tuscany to invest in the wild potential of Monte Vulture. Today, that bold decision is paying off. Grifalco’s wines are now among the most acclaimed in the region, with consistent recognition from Slow Wine, Wine Spectator, and top scores from leading critics. But the most compelling part of the story may just be the quiet confidence of the next generation.

Lorenzo and Andrea were thrust into leadership early on, managing vineyards, refining cellar practices, and stewarding a legacy that blends their parents’ experience with their own evolving vision. 

Rooted in Vulture

Aglianico is often called the Barolo of the South—structured, powerful, and capable of decades-long aging. But few producers harness its intensity with the finesse that Grifalco achieves. That balance begins in the vineyard.

The estate is certified organic and focuses entirely on Aglianico del Vulture, producing four distinct expressions of the variety. . Their terroir includes  some of the highest-altitude and most geologically expressive plots in the zone, all of which sit atop ancient lava flows and volcanic ash deposits that give the wines their signature minerality and depth.

The winery’s minimal-intervention approach in the cellar is a natural extension of their vineyard philosophy. Fermentations are spontaneous, oak is used sparingly, and the brothers work to highlight the individual character of each vineyard rather than obscure it. The result is a lineup of wines that are powerful, yet elegant… They are true reflections of Vulture’s complexity.

Brothers Setting the Bar in Basilicata

Grifalco has earned its place as a benchmark in the Vulture region, and Lorenzo and Andrea are not just preserving their family’s reputation—they’re defining the future of Aglianico del Vulture itself. Their wines regularly score in the 92–95 point range and have been featured in OperaWine, Wine Spectator’s showcase of Italy’s finest producers.

But accolades aside, what stands out most is the conviction with which the brothers carry on their family’s work: total commitment to the land, a singular focus on Aglianico, and a willingness to evolve without compromise.

For a region that has too often been overlooked, Grifalco represents not only a model of excellence but also a glimpse of what’s possible when tradition meets tenacity, and when the next generation takes the lead.

—

Looking to add a taste of Basilicata to your wine list or shop? Contact us today to learn more about Grifalco’s portfolio and availability in your market.