The Aleatico grape is an exquisite variety of Italian grapes, highly valued for its distinct aroma and flavour. It is largely cultivated in the southern regions of Italy, particularly in Puglia, Lazio, and Tuscany. The grape is characterised by its small size, deep purple colour, and high concentration of sugars, providing it with a rich, sweet taste and a fragrant aroma. It is known for its natural affinity towards warmth, thriving particularly well in a Mediterranean climate, with plenty of sun and rocky soils.
Aleatico is best-known for the production of dessert wines, highlighting the grape's capacity to generate high sugar levels. The most renowned amongst these is the Aleatico di Puglia, a delightful red dessert wine with a vibrant hue and powerful nose. This wine expresses classic notes of plum, raisin, and wild berries, accompanied by hints of sweet spices and rose petals.
However, the versatility of the Aleatico grape goes beyond simply making dessert wines. Varieties made in a dry style reveal an intriguing complexity, with earthy and spicy undertones balancing the grape's inherent sweetness. They provide good acidity and they can evolve over the years into a full-bodied, long-lasting wine.
Whilst Aleatico is not as widely recognized as its Italian counterparts, like Sangiovese or Nebbiolo, it is highly appreciated amongst those with a preference for distinctive, characterful wines. Its uniquely aromatic profile carries a seductive allure that can captivate even the most seasoned wine enthusiasts.
Despite its historical significance in Italy, Aleatico is not only grown on Italian soil. Efforts have been made to cultivate this grape in other parts of the world, including Australia and California, giving a global presence to this splendid grape variety. This continuing expansion acts as a testament to the Aleatico grape’s growing popularity and increasing demand in the world of wines.
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