Aleatico

The Aleatico grape is a historic variety with Greek origins, now predominantly cultivated in Italy, especially in the regions of Tuscany, Puglia, and Lazio. This semi-aromatic black grape is believed to be a mutation of the Muscat family, sharing a subtle resemblance in its fragrant profile.

Aleatico is prized for its versatility, producing both dry and sweet wines of high quality. Notable examples include the Aleatico di Gradoli DOC from Lazio and the renowned Elba Aleatico Passito DOCG, a dessert wine from the island of Elba.

The Aleatico berry is medium-sized, black, with a distinctive irregular shape and waxy blue-brown skin with a medium sized cluster, elongated, winged. The leaf is large, pentagonal, orbicular, with three or five lobes. The Aleatico grapes thrives in sun-exposed hillsides, preferring warm climates. It has medium vigor and reliable, consistent yields.

The wine produced from Aleatico grapes typically features a ruby red color, intense floral and fruity aromas, and with age, it develops jammy and mature notes, making it ideal for aging. In addition to its stronghold in central and southern Italy, Aleatico is also found in smaller quantities in Marche, Abruzzo, and Sicily. Beyond Italy, it has been planted in California, Australia, Chile, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Corsica (though not recognized for AOC wine production there).

Whether you're a wine enthusiast exploring niche Italian varietals or seeking a distinctive, aromatic grape, Aleatico offers unique complexity, especially in sweet passito style wines.