Campania

Why Campania's reds guard some of Italy's oldest grape varieties

Campania is one of the Italian regions with the longest uninterrupted winemaking history, dating back to Greek and Roman times. Between the slopes of Vesuvius and the hills of Irpinia, the region has preserved very ancient native grapes capable of giving reds of great structure and longevity, far from the stereotype of simple, immediate southern Italian wine.

Taurasi and Vesuvius: the territories of Campania's reds

Campania's red heart is Irpinia, where the Aglianico grape reaches its fullest expression in Taurasi DOCG, often called the "Barolo of the South" for its ageing potential and firm tannic structure, with a mandatory minimum ageing period of three years, four for the Riserva. On the slopes of Vesuvius, meanwhile, a blend of Piedirosso and Sciascinoso gives rise to Lacryma Christi del Vesuvio Rosso, grown on volcanic soils in direct contact with the volcano's eruptive history. Piedirosso, locally called Per'e Palummo for the shape of its bunch, is also grown as a varietal in several parts of the region.

From fruity Piedirosso to ageing Taurasi: the styles of Campania's reds

Piedirosso offers a fresh, fruity style with soft tannin, made for relatively young consumption. Lacryma Christi del Vesuvio Rosso follows a similar line, enriched by a mineral note from its volcanic soils. Taurasi, by contrast, represents the peak of structure, with firm tannins needing years to soften, notes of dark fruit, spice, and liquorice, approaching the longevity of northern Italy's great ageing reds.

At the table with Campania's reds: pairings that work

Piedirosso naturally accompanies pizza and Neapolitan first courses. Lacryma Christi del Vesuvio Rosso pairs well with white meats and medium-structured dishes. Taurasi, given its power, requires important dishes such as braises, roasted red meats, or very aged cheeses, able to stand up to its tannic structure.

Which Campania red to choose, depending on the occasion

For an everyday meal with Mediterranean character, a Piedirosso remains the most natural choice. For an occasion with medium-structured dishes, Lacryma Christi del Vesuvio Rosso offers a good compromise. Anyone seeking an intense, meditative experience able to evolve in the cellar for years will find their label in Taurasi.

Frequently asked questions

Why is Taurasi called the "Barolo of the South"?

Because of its ageing potential and the firm tannic structure given by Aglianico, characteristics that make it comparable in longevity to Piedmont's great ageing reds, even though it comes from a completely different grape and territory.

What is Lacryma Christi del Vesuvio?

It's a denomination produced on the slopes of Vesuvius, available in both red and white versions, with the red made mainly from Piedirosso and Sciascinoso grown on volcanic soils.

What is Piedirosso, and where does its dialect name come from?

It's a native Campanian grape locally called Per'e Palummo, "pigeon's foot" in Neapolitan dialect, for the shape and colour of its stem, which resembles the bird's feet.

How long does Taurasi age before it can be sold?

The regulations require at least three years' ageing from harvest, at least one in barrel, raised to four years for the Riserva version.