Aglianico
A very tannic, high-acid black grape of black cherry from southern Italy, behind Taurasi in Campania and Aglianico del Vulture in Basilicata.
At a glance
- Black cherry
- Very firm tannin
- High acidity
Recognize it
High acidity, firm tannin and full body, with black cherry and dried herb. Young examples can feel austere, and bottle age can soften the tannin.
Detail
Aglianico is one of southern Italy's most structured red grapes, with high acidity, firm tannin and dark fruit. Taurasi in Campania and Aglianico del Vulture in Basilicata are its two key reference points. The grape ripens late and often needs bottle age for its tannin to soften.
Similar grapes
Nebbiolo
Similar very high acidity and tannin.
Difference Nebbiolo is pale with rose and tar; Aglianico is darker and more black-cherry-led.
Sangiovese
Similar high acidity and firm tannin.
Difference Aglianico is typically fuller-bodied and darker in color.