Aglianico vs Negroamaro
How to tell them apart in a blind tasting
The clearest separator between Aglianico and Negroamaro is acidity: Aglianico is High while Negroamaro is Medium(+). Lead with that to resolve the blind call.
Step 02
Aglianico vs Negroamaro
Compare structure side by side, then resolve the close-call with the right separator.
Aglianico leans powerful tannin-acid structure with smoky dark-cherry profile; Negroamaro leans dark-fruit and herb profile with firm structure and characteristic bitter edge.
Train this pair →Aroma Markers
Shared signature markers
- dried herbs
Aglianico more likely markers
- iron
- smoke
Negroamaro more likely markers
- amaro bitterness
- tobacco
Decision Cues
Most useful separators
- Aglianico leans powerful tannin-acid structure with smoky dark-cherry profile; Negroamaro leans dark-fruit and herb profile with firm structure and characteristic bitter edge.
High-signal differences
- Acidity: Aglianico slightly higher (High vs Medium(+)).
- Tannin: Aglianico slightly higher (High vs Medium(+)).
- Body: Aglianico slightly higher (Full vs Medium(+)).
Reference context
Aglianico
Classic regions:
- Aglianico del Vulture
- Campania
- Taurasi
Style examples:
- Firm high-structure southern Italian red
- Long-aging volcanic-soil red
Negroamaro
Classic regions:
- Brindisi
- Lecce
- Salento
Style examples:
- Salice Salentino Negroamaro
- Puglia IGT Negroamaro
- Warm-climate Puglian dark-fruited red
Common questions
How do you tell Aglianico and Negroamaro apart in a blind tasting?
The clearest separator between Aglianico and Negroamaro is acidity: Aglianico is High while Negroamaro is Medium(+). Lead with that to resolve the blind call.
Is Aglianico or Negroamaro higher in acidity?
On the WSET ladder, Aglianico is High and Negroamaro is Medium(+) for acidity.
Are Aglianico and Negroamaro red or white?
Aglianico and Negroamaro are both red grape varieties.