Aglianico

Aglianico is a dark, late-ripening red grape from southern Italy and one of the country''s most distinctive varieties. It produces deeply coloured wines with vivid acidity, firm tannins and aromas of black cherry, plum, dried herbs, smoke and earthy spice.

Its best-known homes are Campania and Basilicata, especially Taurasi and Aglianico del Vulture. These regions show why Aglianico is valued by sommeliers: it can be bold and structured when young, yet gain elegance, leather, tobacco and mineral complexity with maturity.

Tenuta Cavalier Pepe

Irpinia Campi Taurasini doc. Santo Stefano doc. 2019 0,75l

€ 15,15

€ 20,20/l incl. VAT, plus shipping

Tenuta Cavalier Pepe

Irpinia Aglianico doc.Terra Del Varo, doc. 2023 0,75l

€ 12,35

€ 16,47/l incl. VAT, plus shipping

What does Aglianico taste like?

Aglianico usually tastes dark, savoury and firmly built. Expect black cherry, blackberry, plum skin, dried violet, liquorice, tobacco, pepper and sometimes a graphite-like mineral note. The acidity is naturally fresh, while the tannins are grippy and persistent.

Young examples can feel powerful and slightly rustic, especially when extraction or oak is prominent. With careful ageing, the texture becomes more polished, adding notes of leather, forest floor, cocoa and dried herbs without losing the grape''s energetic backbone.

Where does Aglianico come from?

Aglianico is most closely associated with southern Italy, particularly Campania and Basilicata. Taurasi in Campania and Aglianico del Vulture in Basilicata are its classic reference points, both capable of producing serious, age-worthy red wines.

The grape is also found in other parts of the Italian south, where warm days and long growing seasons help it ripen fully. Because Aglianico needs time to soften its tannins, the most convincing wines usually come from sites that combine warmth with enough altitude or freshness.

Which styles of Aglianico are there?

The classic style is a dry, structured red wine with dark fruit, spice, high acidity and firm tannin. Many top examples are aged in large casks or barrels, giving extra depth, cedar and savoury notes while preserving the grape''s natural tension.

There are also fresher, earlier-drinking Aglianico wines with brighter cherry fruit and less oak, as well as richer, more concentrated bottles made for cellaring. Rosé styles exist, but the grape is best known internationally for powerful dry reds.

What food pairs with Aglianico?

Aglianico is excellent with robust food. Pair it with grilled beef, lamb chops, braised pork, venison, ragù, wild boar pasta, roasted aubergine or dishes with tomato, rosemary and black olive.

Its acidity cuts through fat, while the tannins work well with protein and slow-cooked meats. Mature Aglianico also suits aged pecorino, hard cheeses, mushroom dishes and savoury stews where earthy flavours can echo the wine''s depth.

Buy Aglianico wine online

Aglianico is a rewarding choice for anyone who enjoys red wines with structure, freshness and a strong sense of place. It offers power without sweetness, intensity without excess, and a fascinating savoury profile.

In our selection, Aglianico is ideal for lovers of Barolo, Syrah or serious southern Italian reds who want something distinctive. Explore bottles for hearty meals, winter evenings and cellaring alike.