From Volcano to Vine: The Unique Terroir and Wines of Campania

Nestled in southern Italy, Campania is a region where history, tradition, and nature come together to create some of Italy’s most distinctive wines. From the volcanic slopes of Mount Vesuvius to the rolling hills inland, Campania’s terroir plays a key role in shaping the character of its wines.

The Terroir: A Land Shaped by Fire and Sea

Campania’s landscape is defined by volcanic soils, rich in minerals, which impart a unique complexity to its wines. The influence of the Mediterranean climate, with warm days and cool breezes from the Tyrrhenian Sea, helps grapes retain their acidity, creating wines with freshness and depth.

Some of the most renowned wine areas include:

Irpinia – Home to some of the region’s most prestigious DOCG wines.
Vesuvius – Producing wines from grapes grown on the fertile volcanic slopes.
The Amalfi Coast – Steep vineyards overlooking the sea, yielding elegant and aromatic wines.

Campania’s Star Wines

🍇 Greco di Tufo (White)
A crisp and mineral-rich white wine made from the Greco grape, grown in the volcanic soils of Tufo. This wine boasts citrus, almond, and floral notes, with a refreshing acidity that makes it a perfect match for seafood and fresh cheeses.

🍇 Fiano di Avellino (White)
Another standout white, Fiano offers richer, more honeyed flavors with hints of hazelnut, tropical fruit, and smoke. It’s a wine that can age beautifully, developing more depth over time.

🍇 Taurasi (Red)
Often called the "Barolo of the South," Taurasi is a powerful red made from Aglianico grapes. With deep flavors of dark berries, leather, tobacco, and spice, this wine is known for its firm tannins and excellent aging potential.

🍇 Lacryma Christi del Vesuvio (White & Red)
A legendary wine grown on the slopes of Mount Vesuvius, Lacryma Christi (“Tears of Christ”) comes in both white and red styles. The white is floral and crisp, while the red is fruity and slightly smoky, reflecting its volcanic origins.

A Taste of Campania

Campania’s wines are a true reflection of the land—bold, expressive, and steeped in history. Whether you’re sipping a crisp Greco di Tufo by the sea or enjoying a glass of Taurasi with a hearty meal, each wine tells a story of its origins.

Looking to explore the wines of Campania? Join us for Wine Wednesday on February 19th, where we’ll be tasting Greco di Tufo and Taurasi, paired with delicious appetizers!