Aglianico IGP Salento

Salento's Aglianico plateau sits on ancient limestone bedrock at 80–120 metres elevation, where diurnal temperature swings between the Adriatic and Ionian coasts concentrate phenolic ripeness in this southern Italian native. L'Archetipo sources from this subregion's clay-limestone soils, where Aglianico—traditionally a Campanian varietal—has established a secondary stronghold.

Vinification follows classical Puglian protocol: destemmed fruit undergoes 15–20 day maceration in temperature-controlled stainless steel, extracting colour and tannin without oxidative stress. Post-fermentation, the wine rests 8–10 months in neutral French oak (no new wood), allowing phenolic integration without vanilla overlay.

Malolactic fermentation occurs in-barrel, softening malic acidity typical of cooler-vintage Aglianico.

The transgression here is geographic: Aglianico thrives in Campania's volcanic soils (Taurasi, Fiano di Avellino), yet Salento's limestone terroir produces a leaner, more mineral-driven expression—less brooding power, more structural definition. This 2021 vintage captures that limestone signature: taut acidity preserved through the growing season's moderate heat.

Drinking window: 2024–2030. Decant 30 minutes before service to open tertiary aromas.