Irpinia and its wines

Irpinia, set in the heart of Campania, is one of the most fascinating wine regions in Italy, known for its unique combination of tradition, terroir and native grape varieties. This hilly area, which extends across the province of Avellino, is characterised by volcanic soils, a cool climate and high altitudes, which provide ideal conditions for producing high-quality wines, including some of the most renowned Italian whites and reds.

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What is Irpinia?

Irpinia  is a historic area of Campania stretching across the hills and mountains of the province of Avellino. Known for its thousand-year-old winemaking tradition, the region is a byword for excellence in white wines such as Fiano di Avellino and Greco di Tufo, and in the powerful, structured red of Taurasi. Its unique terroir, rich in minerals thanks to the volcanic soils, gives the wines a distinctive character and an extraordinary ageing capacity.

Characteristics of Irpinia Wines

1. Elegance and Longevity: Wines able to develop over time, taking on complex aromas and depth.
2. Minerality: Volcanic soils that give the wines freshness and savouriness.
3. Varieties: A range spanning aromatic whites to full-bodied, structured reds.

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Places of Interest in Irpinia

1. Taurasi

A medieval village famous for the red wine Taurasi DOCG, made mainly from the Aglianico grape variety.

2. Montefusco

Set among the hills, it offers spectacular views and a strong winemaking tradition tied to Greco di Tufo.

3. Lapio

The home of Fiano di Avellino, where the grape variety reaches its fullest expression in elegance and complexity.

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Characteristics of Irpinia Wines

Colour

• Whites: Bright straw yellow, with greenish highlights in the young wines and golden ones in the aged wines.
• Reds: Deep ruby red with garnet nuances in the aged wines.

Aromas

• Fruity: Notes of apple, pear, apricot and citrus in the whites; cherry, plum and blackberry in the reds.
• Floral: Hints of hawthorn, acacia and orange blossom.
• Spicy: Hints of vanilla, black pepper and liquorice in aged red wines.

Palate

• Fresh and Savoury: The whites stand out for their lively acidity and minerality.
• Structured and Lingering: The reds offer balanced tannins and a long, enveloping finish.

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Typical Grape Varieties of Irpinia

White Grape Varieties

• Fiano: Elegant and complex, with notes of dried fruit and white flowers.
• Greco: Mineral and savoury, with a unique character given by the volcanic soils.
• Coda di Volpe: Fresh and light, often used in blends.

Black Grape Varieties

• Aglianico: Structured and powerful, the base grape variety of Taurasi DOCG.

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Why Choose a Wine from Irpinia?

The wines of Irpinia represent the excellence of Campanian viticulture, with a perfect combination of tradition, innovation and a unique terroir. Ideal for accompanying Mediterranean dishes such as pasta al ragù, aged cheeses and roasts, these wines are a journey into the authentic flavours of southern Italy.