Aglianico, also known as the "Barolo of the South", is one of the oldest grape varieties in Italy. It is therefore logical that there are many legends and stories about this variety. The Phoenicians are said to have brought it with them hundreds of years before the birth of Christ. The Greeks also brought it, because the name is derived from "ellenico" (Hellenic, i.e. Greek).
Sometimes one hears stories that the grape variety could actually be the legendary, ancient "Falerner", which Pliny had already praised. However, this is no longer verifiable either. So if an Italian tells you one of these stories, listen to him, he's sure to believe it rock-solid. Have a glass with him, because many of these "aglianiche" (that's how the plural is formed) are indeed very, very good. Dark and dense with aromas reminiscent of plums, cassis (blackcurrants) and sour cherries, often a little bitter chocolate. Rich in tannins and with lively acidity - hence the comparison with Barolo - they can often show great ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE
