Aglianico is a prestigious, ancient red grape variety predominantly grown in southern Italy, especially in the regions of **Campania** and **Basilicata**. Often referred to as the "**Barolo of the South**," Aglianico produces deeply colored, robust wines with excellent aging potential. Believed to have been brought to Italy by the Greeks around the 7th century BC, the name *Aglianico* may be a corruption of the word *Hellenico* (meaning “Greek”).

Aglianico is the cornerstone of some of Southern Italy's most acclaimed appellations, including **Taurasi DOCG** in Campania and **Aglianico del Vulture DOCG** in Basilicata.

#### **Viticultural Characteristics**

- **Vigor**: Moderate to high

- **Yield**: Moderate (can be reduced for quality wines)

- **Soil Preference**: Volcanic, calcareous, well-drained soils

- **Climate Suitability**: Hot, dry climates with significant diurnal shifts

- **Disease Resistance**: Moderate resistance; susceptible to powdery mildew and botrytis if not carefully managed

#### **Winemaking Notes**

- **Vinification**: Typically fermented in stainless steel or large oak vats

- **Maturation**: Commonly aged in oak (large casks or barriques) for 12–24 months; further bottle aging enhances complexity

- **Potential Styles**: Dry red, Rosato (rosé), rare sparkling versions

- **Blending**: Usually vinified as a varietal wine, but can be blended with other local or international varieties

#### **Wine Characteristics**

- **Color**: Deep ruby to garnet with age

- **Aromas**: Dark fruits (plum, blackberry), leather, tar, dried herbs, floral notes (violet), earthy/mineral undertones

- **Palate**:

- **Tannin**: High

- **Acidity**: High

- **Body**: Full-bodied

- **Alcohol**: Medium to high (13–15% ABV)

- **Aging Potential**: 10–30 years or more; best examples gain complexity with age

#### **Notable Appellations**

- **Taurasi DOCG (Campania)**

- Minimum aging: 3 years (1 year in wood), **Riserva**: 4 years

- **Aglianico del Vulture DOCG (Basilicata)**

- Volcanic soils from Mount Vulture give a distinct mineral character

- **Taburno DOCG (Campania)**