Origins and Global Presence of Aglianico and Nebbiolo
Aglianico: The Ancient Soul of Southern ItalyAglianico’s roots run deep in the volcanic soils of Campania and Basilicata, where it has been grown for centuries. While legends tie its origin to ancient Greek settlers, recent research points to a truly Southern Italian heritage, with no direct Greek ancestry found in its DNA. The grape’s name has evolved over time, reflecting the many cultures that have shaped the region—from Roman to Spanish influences. After surviving near extinction during the phylloxera crisis, Aglianico was revived and remains a symbol of resilience and tradition.Today, Aglianico is still most at home in the hills of Southern Italy, particularly in the famed Taurasi and Aglianico del Vulture DOCGs. Smaller plantings can be found in neighboring regions, but its reach now extends beyond Italy. Producers in Australia and the United States, especially in warm climates like California and Texas, are experimenting with Aglianico, crafting bold wines that highlight its rich fruit and earthy depth. These New World examples showcase the grape’s adaptability, while honoring its storied past.Nebbiolo: Piedmont’s Noble ClassicNebbiolo is inseparable from the misty vineyards of Piedmont, where it has been cherished since the Middle Ages. The grape takes its name from the thick autumn fog—nebbia—that blankets the Langhe hills during harvest. Historical records from the 1200s and 1300s show Nebbiolo’s early presence and high regard among local nobility. While some evidence hints at connections to nearby Lombardy, Nebbiolo’s true character is shaped by the rolling hills and unique soils of northern Italy.Outside of its Italian homeland, Nebbiolo is a rare find. It thrives in Piedmont’s renowned Barolo and Barbaresco zones, as well as in Valtellina and the Valle d’Aosta. Attempts to grow Nebbiolo abroad—in Australia’s cool valleys, select parts of California, and a handful of other regions—have met with mixed results. These wines often show a softer, fruitier side, but the grape’s greatest expressions remain tied to its native terroir, where Nebbiolo continues to set the standard for Italian elegance and complexity.