The Magliocco canino grape variety has been cultivated since ancient times in Calabria and parts of Sicily. Magliocco canino belongs to the large family of Magliocchi typical of Calabrian viticulture, among which it stands out for its great oenological potential compared to the others. The origin of its unique name is unknown, perhaps due to the cluster, which appears small like a fist or a mallet. Magliocco canino is cultivated by a few producers on the Tyrrhenian side of the Calabria coast, in the provinces of Cosenza and Catanzaro. There has been some confusion between Magliocco and Gaglioppo, which some continue to call “Magliocco” or “Mantonico nero,” but in reality, these are two distinct varieties that produce completely different organoleptic results.

The cluster of Magliocco canino is medium-sized, conical, fairly elongated, and moderately loose. The berries are dark, covered with bloom, and ovoid in shape. The normal ripening of this grape occurs around mid-September. Rarely used in purity, Magliocco canino is often used in blends with other grape varieties. Its addition increases the polyphenolic and tannic content, as well as the underlying acidity. These characteristics make Magliocco canino suitable for creating fine wines that can be subjected to medium aging.