Aglianico

Aglianico, a distinguished grape variety native to southern Italy, is renowned for its robust and complex flavour profile that appeals to the discerning palates of wine enthusiasts across the UK.

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  Black Cherry

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  Plum

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  Black Pepper

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  Smoked Meat

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  Leather

This grape variety is celebrated for its deep and rich notes of black cherry and plum, offering a fruit-forward experience that's both lush and inviting. Adding to its complexity, Aglianico boasts a distinctive hint of black pepper, lending a spicy edge that British connoisseurs often appreciate, especially when paired with hearty meat dishes.

The grape's unique character is further enriched by intriguing undertones of smoked meat and leather, creating a multi-layered taste sensation. This amalgamation of flavours makes Aglianico wines a superb choice for those looking to explore beyond the more familiar wine varieties, offering a taste that resonates with the depth and history of Italian winemaking.

For British connoisseurs eager to appreciate the robust character of the Aglianico grape, a few key practices can elevate your experience. Ideally served at a temperate 17-20°C, akin to a cosy British evening, this wine thrives in a large Bordeaux glass, allowing its complex aromas to fully develop.

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  Serving temperature:

  17-20°C
• 

  Glass type:

  Large Bordeaux
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  Suggested time in Decanter:

  1 hour
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  Lasting period once open:

  4-5 days
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  Storing time in cellar:

  10 to 20 years

To unveil its intricate layers, decanting for an hour is recommended, much like a leisurely unwind after a day’s work. Remarkably, an open bottle of Aglianico can retain its distinctive qualities for 4-5 days, offering a lasting indulgence.

For those with a penchant for ageing wines, rest assured, Aglianico gracefully matures over 10 to 20 years in the cellar, akin to a well-kept secret, evolving and deepening, ready to surprise you years down the line. Whether enjoyed immediately or stored for future enjoyment, Aglianico is a testament to the timeless elegance of Italian wines, resonating well with the refined British palate.

• Price Range:

  Aglianico wines are accessible for a range of budgets, typically priced between £12 to £40. The cost varies depending on the type and vintage, offering options for both casual enthusiasts and serious collectors in the UK.

• Pasta Pairing:

  This robust wine pairs exceptionally with pasta dishes featuring rich meat sauces. Recommended combinations include pasta with Lamb ragu, oxtail, or wild boar, where the wine's depth complements the hearty flavours of the sauce.

• Risotto & Rice Pairing:

  For risotto enthusiasts, Aglianico makes an excellent companion to Risotto alla Milanese topped with ossobuco or a hearty mushroom risotto, enhancing the creamy texture with its bold profile.

• Meat Pairing:

  This wine is a perfect match for barbecued or smoked meats, stewed beef, or a classic steak. Its structure and tannins beautifully cut through the richness of the meat.

• Fish Pairing:

  Generally, Aglianico does not pair well with fish due to its robust nature. However, if opting for an Aglianico rosato, some fish dishes can be complemented.

• Cheese Pairing:

  When it comes to cheese, Aglianico pairs wonderfully with aged varieties. Enjoy it with a slice of parmigiano, a chunk of cheddar, or a wedge of blue cheese to appreciate the harmony between the bold wine and the sharpness of the cheese.

• Cuisine Compatibility:

  This versatile wine finds its place alongside various global cuisines. It pairs particularly well with French dishes, American barbecue, and traditional Italian meals, offering a broad spectrum of culinary explorations for British palates.

• Aglianico del Vulture DOCG

  Made in Basilicata, this classic Aglianico is bold and beloved by many wine drinkers. The wine gets its name from where the grapes are grown, around Monte Vulture.

• Taurasi DOCG

  This is the most esteemed Aglianico wine.The grapes are made in Avellino, in the Campania region. This Aglianico requires the most aging in bottle to soften its intense structure.

• Aglianico del Taburno DOCG

  This Aglianico is grown and vinified in the Benevento area in Campania. It is usually the most affordable of the Aglianicos, but still delivers a bold structure and finesse.

Aglianico has an impressive lineage. It is an ancient grape indigenous to Southern Italy. This grape has been adored by several peoples for centuries. In fact, it is considered to have one of the most extensive histories in the global grape market. The oldest civilizations in Italy cultivated and exported Aglianico.

The Romans were in love with Aglianico. When the Romans took over, the grape’s production expanded further. This led to Avellino becoming the prized region for Aglianico grapes. Avellino remains the most distinguished Aglianico growing zone today - the Taurasi wines are produced exclusively in the comune of Avellino.

Overtime, Aglianico production expanded beyond its home in Campania and Basilicata. Aglianico is also grown in the neighboring regions of Molise as well as Puglia. In certain areas of Campania, Aglianico makes up at least 85 percent of wines with a bit of Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon blended in. Aglianico is also exported all around the world. It is even grown in different wine growing regions. Parts of Australia and California now produce Aglianico grapes as well.

Aglianico is a gem of Southern Italy. Its impressive history and complex flavors make it a quality wine you must try out, preferably with a delicious meat dish.