Varietal Guide
Aglianico
Reviewed by Morgan Dannels, Head Sommelier · Last updated May 14, 2026
Sip Tip
Aglianico is one of the oldest grape varieties in Italy, brought to the southern region of Campania by Greek settlers around 800 BCE, making it a living link to ancient winemaking traditions that predate the Roman Empire.
Considered the greatest red variety of Southern Italy, Aglianico thrives in Campania and Basilicata. It yields full-bodied reds with intense colour, firm tannins, and bright acidity. Its structure is often compared to Nebbiolo.
Taurasi DOCG in Campania is the flagship: made entirely from Aglianico, showing layered florals alongside dark fruit. With bottle age, earthy and savoury character can emerge. Aglianico del Vulture from Basilicata offers a similar style. Both regions produce wines with excellent aging potential.
What does Aglianico taste like?
A full-bodied red with deep colour and serious grip. Tannin and acidity both run high, so expect firm structure throughout. The aromatics layer dark fruit with floral complexity, and time in bottle reveals secondary layers of earth and savour. Taurasi is the flagship expression: dark fruit intensity, floral lift, and a framework that rewards patience. Aglianico ranks among Italy's most age-worthy reds.
What food pairs with Aglianico?
Aglianico's tannin and acidity call for fatty, rich dishes. Lamb braises, slow-cooked pork, and rich meat sauces all work. Aged hard cheeses match the structure without fighting it.
- •Braised lamb shoulder
- •Rich pork ragù
- •Aged hard cheeses
How to serve Aglianico
- 1.Taurasi needs time. Drink it young and you're fighting tannin; give it ten years and the wine opens into something profound.
- 2.Aglianico del Vulture offers a similar profile with slightly less intensity, a good entry point if you're new to the grape.
- 3.This is the Barolo of the South in structure and aging potential, but it costs a fraction of what Nebbiolo does.
- 4.Top producers include Mastroberardino (the Radici bottling), Terredora, Feudi di San Gregorio, Paternoster, and D'Angelo.
- 5.If your cellar runs to Barolo or Barbaresco, add Taurasi. It belongs in that company.