Aglianico Benevento

Aglianico Beneventano: A Wine with a Legendary Name

Aglianico Beneventano, or simply Aglianico, is an Italian red wine produced in the regions of Campania, Basilicata, and Puglia. The origin of its name is shrouded in legend, which tells of a battle between two peoples, the Greeks and the Samnites, which took place in the 4th century aC and is remembered as the Battle of Benevento.

According to legend, the Greek army was defeated and the surviving soldiers fled south on foot, taking the Aglianico vines with them. Aglianico wine has since been considered a kind of wine of remembrance, a precious testimony to the history and culture of these lands.

Aglianico has a long history of production, dating back at least to the 16th century, when it was first mentioned by Neapolitan author Giovan Battista della Porta. Since then, Aglianico has been recognized as one of Italy's finest red wines, appreciated by enthusiasts around the world.

Characteristics of the Aglianico Benevento Wine

Aglianico is a full-bodied, intense, and balanced red wine. Its color is intense, tending toward garnet, and can vary depending on the type: young wines are ruby red, while aged wines tend toward garnet.

The aroma is intense and complex, with notes of ripe fruit, spice, tobacco, and chocolate. On the palate, it is smooth, with good acidity and well-balanced tannins. The flavor is persistent and rich, with nuances of ripe fruit, spice, vanilla, and chocolate.

Aglianico is also a wine with good longevity: young wines can be drunk after a couple of years, while aged wines can be kept for several years.

How can I best taste an Aglianico Beneventano?

To best enjoy an Aglianico Beneventano, there are a few rules to keep in mind. The wine is best served at 16-18 degrees Celsius, and should be enjoyed in a large glass that enhances its characteristics.

When tasting, pay attention to color, aroma, and flavor. Taste the wine slowly to appreciate all its characteristics. Once tasted, it's important to consider the intensity of the flavors and the sensations the wine leaves in the mouth.

How to Pair an Aglianico Beneventano?

Aglianico pairs well with meat and game dishes, such as jugged hare, venison, roast rabbit, pork, braised beef, or game in sauce. It also pairs well with aged cheeses, such as Castelmagno or Pecorino Toscano.

For those who enjoy sweeter wines, Aglianico is an excellent pairing with fruit-based desserts, such as baked apples, apple pie, or fruit tart.

In conclusion, Aglianico Beneventano is a full-bodied and intense Italian red wine, with a history rich in legends and excellent quality products. Its rich, complex aroma and persistent, rich flavor make it an ideal accompaniment to meat dishes, game, aged cheeses, and fruit desserts. It is a wine that will satisfy even the most discerning palates.