Discover the Aglianico Grape Varietal: Flavor Profile and Pairing Tips

Geographic Distribution and Cultivation

Today, Aglianico is primarily cultivated in the southern Italian regions of Basilicata and Campania, where it thrives in volcanic soils and warm, sunny climates. Outside of Italy, smaller plantings exist in Australia and the United States, especially in warmer regions where the grape’s thick skin and late-ripening qualities are advantageous.

Regional Expressions

Aglianico in Southern Italy

• Historical Importance and Prominence: Aglianico has been an important varietal in southern Italy for centuries, often called the “Barolo of the South” for its quality and aging potential. Its role in producing prestigious DOCG wines, such as Taurasi in Campania and Aglianico del Vulture in Basilicata, has solidified its reputation. Aglianico is a major component in one or more wines from 85 different areas, highlighting its diversity and importance in Italian winemaking.
• Key Wine-Producing Regions:
• Basilicata: The Aglianico del Vulture DOCG is the most renowned appellation in Basilicata, producing structured, mineral-rich wines from volcanic soils surrounding Mount Vulture.
• Campania: Aglianico is the primary grape in Taurasi DOCG, one of Italy’s most prestigious wine designations. Taurasi wines are known for their complexity, firm tannins, and long aging potential.
• Stylistic Variations and Quality Levels: Aglianico wines from Campania often exhibit more fruit-forward profiles with floral and earthy notes, while those from Basilicata are typically more mineral-driven with pronounced acidity. Quality levels vary from easy-drinking, youthful expressions to powerful, age-worthy DOCG wines.

Aglianico in Other Regions

• Global Distribution and Cultivation: Outside Italy, Aglianico has small but growing plantings in the United States (particularly in California and Texas) and Australia. These regions are experimenting with Aglianico to see how it adapts to different climates and winemaking techniques.
• Notable Examples and Regional Interpretations: In the United States, Aglianico is typically made into bold, fruit-forward wines with softened tannins, while Australian expressions are often more fruit-driven, reflecting the warmer climate.
• Impact on Local Wine Cultures: Aglianico’s adoption in regions outside Italy has helped expand its recognition and popularity. In North America and Australia, Aglianico is embraced by winemakers seeking to diversify their offerings and appeal to consumers looking for unique Italian varietals with aging potential.

Notable Wines and Producers

Iconic Aglianico Wines

• High-Quality Examples: High-quality Aglianico wines come from producers dedicated to low yields, extended maceration, and careful aging in both oak and bottle. These wines often showcase the grape’s dark fruit, structured tannic flavours complex, earthy flavours.
• Tasting Notes: Notable Aglianico wines feature dark fruit aromas of blackberry, black cherry, and plum, complemented by floral notes of violet and hints of leather, smoke, and spice. With age, these wines develop layers of tar, tobacco, earthy nuances, and even hints of mushroom broth, becoming more complex and nuanced.

Renowned Producers

• Winery Profiles: Leading Aglianico producers include Feudi di San Gregorio and Mastroberardino in Campania, both known for their high-quality Taurasi DOCG wines, as well as Elena Fucci in Basilicata, who produces renowned Aglianico del Vulture wines. Each of these wineries has helped raise awareness of Aglianico’s potential through quality-driven, expressive wines.
• Philosophy and Winemaking Practices: Many top Aglianico producers focus on traditional techniques, including long maceration periods, barrel aging, and bottle aging, to develop the grape’s tannic structure and complexity. Sustainable practices and minimal intervention are also common among quality-focused producers.
• Awards and Recognition: Aglianico wines from Campania and Basilicata have received numerous awards in international competitions, elevating the grape’s reputation on a global scale. These accolades have helped establish Aglianico as one of Italy’s top red grape varietals.