Aglianico
Aglianico is an ancient black grape variety originating in Greece, whose name is said to derive from a mispronunciation of the adjective 'Hellenic', with which it was originally identified. It was introduced into Italy as early as the 7th and 6th centuries B.C. and reached its best expression in the volcanic soils of Basilicata and Campania, linking it to local wine-making traditions. The grapes, characterised by their very thick skin, high sugar content and important tannic structure, give life to full-bodied, dense and structured reds with long ageing in wood that makes them velvety, soft and complex. Since ancient times, this grape has been the star of intense and precious nectars, and today it is the basis of important wines from the south of Italy. Due to their structure, body, vigour and elegance they are often defined as 'Barolo of the South', and go well with very tasty red meats and mature cheeses.