Aglianico

Aglianico is a black grape variety widespread above all in the regions of southern Italy, in particular in Campania, Basilicata and partly in Apulia and Molise. Its cultivation occupies a total area of about 7500 ha. In the past it was believed that his name derives from an adaptation of the term Hellenic which indicated a possible Greek origin. However, these Greek origins currently remain only probable. Since DNA investigations have shown that Aglianico has no affinity with dark grape varieties currently present in Greece. We are not even sure that it is one of the grapes that in ancient Roman times were called Aminae and which were the basis of famous wines such as Falernum, Caecubum, Gauranum or Faustianum. However, the presence of many and different biotypes would seem to confirm its ancient origins.

The different climatic and geological conformation of the areas in which Aglianico matures has made the differences between the Aglianico produced in Campania in the Taurasi area, that linked to the Benevento area and known as Aglianico del Taburno and that coming from Basilicata, appreciable over time. and known as Aglianico del Vulture spreading near Monte Vulture. Preferring soils of volcanic origin, Aglianico grows well on hilly and mountain slopes with good exposure but cooled by the wind. It is a late ripening grape and is usually vinified alone as a red wine or in combination with other red grape varieties such as Piedirosso and Merlot. The grapes are often subjected to aging in cask or barrique to loosen the hardness of the tannins in the post-fermentation phase and give a more worked, round and harmonious wine. Aglianico produces a wine of great structure and longevity, rich in tannins and acidity. For this reason it requires long aging times before reaching balance and harmony, while in the younger version it has a greater roundness of fruit always accompanied by a sustained acidity. Among the most famous appellations based on Aglianico we remember Taurasi DOCG, Aglianico del Vulture DOC, Aglianico del Taburno DOCG.

Aglianico del Vulture

Aglianico del Vulture comes from the Basilicata region and takes its name from Mount Vulture around which the vineyards develop. On volcanic soils and with an altitude of up to 800 meters above sea level, this DOC hosts the Riserva version, which provides for an ageing of up to 3 years. Particularly suitable for roasts, game and hard cheeses, it is a wine with compact aromas and able to offer greater balance and pleasantness to the palate when aged in wood.

Aglianico del Taburno

Since 2011 classified as DOCG, Aglianico del Taburno, also present as Rosato, is grown in the provinces of Benevento and Avellino, and requires the use of the Aglianico grape for 85%. With a dry and soft taste, it requires 3 years of aging in the Riserva version, of which at least 12 months in wooden barrels. Pleasant on the palate and persistent, it accompanies grilled fish, cod with tomato and slightly aged cheeses.

Can I buy a white Aglianico online?

Although the organoleptic characteristics of Aglianico are famously linked to red vinification with the consequent contribution of tannins and coloring substances, some producers have developed a white vinification of Aglianico avoiding the maceration of the skins of the berries with the must obtained from pressing the grapes. In this way, by removing the pomace, the release of coloring substances is eliminated.

Which is the best producer of Aglianico del Vulture?

When it comes to wine it is difficult to judge without taking into account everyone's taste. There are many valid and appreciated producers of Aglianico del Vulture and in our online wine shop you will find a wide selection of Aglianico del Vulture with products complete with characteristics, awards and awards for each vintage. Be inspired by our bottles and have fun buying your Aglianico del Vulture online.

What are the best combinations for Aglianico del Vulture

Being a wine with a sustained acidity and evident tannic consistency, Aglianico lends itself well to accompanying red meats in general, lamb, first courses based on meat sauce and, when aged for long periods, it can also be used as a wine for meditation.