Discover Naples: a food and wine journey through the vineyards of Campania

Naples, one of the most fascinating cities in Italy, is not only famous for its history, culture and cuisine, but is also an ideal starting point for an unforgettable food and wine experience in the splendid region of Campania. This journey into Campania’s winemaking traditions offers the opportunity to explore breathtaking landscapes, visit historic cellars and taste wines that tell the thousand-year history of this fertile land rich in biodiversity. Campania boasts a winemaking tradition that has its roots in antiquity, with native vines that give life to wines of great character and quality.

In this article, we’ll guide you through ten highlights that highlight Campania’s exceptional wine heritage. We will discover together the DOC and DOCG denominations that distinguish the wines of this region, exploring the cellars overlooking Vesuvius and the vineyards of the Campi Flegrei, where the unique terroir contributes to wines with an unmistakable flavour. We will focus on Irpinia, famous for its tastings in the vineyards, and on Sannio, where some of the most renowned wine excellences are produced.

There will be no shortage of excursions in Cilento, an area rich in natural beauty and gastronomic traditions, and typical food and wine pairings that enhance local products. Finally, we will take a look at the events and wine festivals that animate the region, as well as providing practical advice for those who want to fully enjoy this experience. Join us on this food and wine journey to discover Naples and its surroundings through a glass of wine and a typical dish, immersing yourself in the culture and passion of one of the most fascinating regions in Italy.

The Campania wine tradition

History and characteristics

Campania's winemaking tradition dates back to ancient times, with evidence dating back to Roman times. The region is famous for producing high-quality wines, thanks to its Mediterranean climate and volcanic soils that give the wines a unique character. The native grape varieties, such as Aglianico, Falanghina, Greco di Tufo and Fiano, are the protagonists of Campania wine production, giving life to fine wines renowned throughout the world.

Campania boasts several denominations of controlled origin (DOC) and controlled and guaranteed origin (DOCG), which guarantee the quality and authenticity of the wines produced in the region. Campania wines are appreciated for their aromatic complexity, freshness and elegance, which make them perfect for accompanying local cuisine.

The Campania wine tradition is also characterized by a strong attention to environmental sustainability and the valorization of the territory, with numerous wineries that adopt agricultural practices that respect the environment and the surrounding landscape.

DOC and DOCG wines of Campania

DOC wines from Campania

Campania is a region rich in winemaking tradition and boasts several Controlled Designations of Origin (DOC) which guarantee the quality and authenticity of the wines produced. Among the most famous DOC wines of the region we find Greco di Tufo, Fiano di Avellino, Taurasi and Aglianico del Taburno. These wines are produced in specific areas of the region and represent the enological excellence of Campania.

Greco di Tufo is a dry white wine produced in the Tufo area, in the province of Avellino, and is characterized by its straw yellow color and its fresh and fruity flavour. Fiano di Avellino is another dry white wine, produced in the area around Avellino, and stands out for its intense aroma and balanced acidity. Taurasi, on the other hand, is a dry red wine produced in the Taurasi area, in the province of Avellino, and is characterized by its intense ruby ​​color and its full-bodied and tannic flavour. Finally, Aglianico del Taburno is a dry red wine produced in the Taburno area, in the province of Benevento, and stands out for its complex aroma and robust structure.

DOCG wines from Campania

Campania also boasts some Controlled and Guaranteed Designations of Origin (DOCG), which represent the maximum expression of the region's enological quality. Among the most renowned DOCG wines of Campania we find Taurasi, Greco di Tufo and Fiano di Avellino. These wines are produced in specific areas of the region and must comply with strict production regulations to obtain the DOCG designation.

Taurasi DOCG is a dry red wine produced in the Taurasi area, in the province of Avellino, and is characterized by its intense ruby ​​red colour, its complex aroma and its structured and tannic flavour. Greco di Tufo DOCG is a dry white wine produced in the Tufo area, in the province of Avellino, and stands out for its golden yellow color and its floral and fruity aroma. Finally, Fiano di Avellino DOCG is a dry white wine produced in the area around Avellino, and is characterized by its straw yellow colour, its intense aroma and its fresh and persistent flavour.

Visit the cellars of Vesuvius

The cellars of Vesuvius: a journey through history and tradition

The cellars of Vesuvius represent one of the most fascinating food and wine experiences that Campania can offer its visitors. Located on the slopes of the famous volcano, these cellars enjoy a particularly favorable climate for the production of high quality wines, thanks to the presence of fertile soils and constant ventilation from the sea.

The cellars of Vesuvius are famous for the production of Lacryma Christi, a wine with a unique and enveloping flavour, which draws its inspiration directly from the legend which tells how the tears of Lucifer, expelled from paradise, bathed these lands giving life to a divine product.

Visits to the cellars of Vesuvius offer tourists the opportunity to completely immerse themselves in the culture and winemaking tradition of the region. During guided tours, it is possible to discover the secrets of the production of these fine wines, visit the underground cellars where the wine rests in wooden barrels and savor the different varieties in tastings guided by expert sommeliers.

A trip to the cellars of Vesuvius is an unforgettable experience, which allows you to appreciate not only the quality of the wines produced but also the beauty of the surrounding landscapes, with the vineyards extending to the base of the volcano, offering breathtaking views on the Gulf of Naples and the surrounding islands.

The vineyards of the Campi Flegrei

The history of viticulture in the Campi Flegrei

The Campi Flegrei area, located north-west of Naples, has been known for its winemaking tradition for centuries. The origins of viticulture in this region date back to Roman times, when vineyards were cultivated on the slopes of the volcanoes that characterize the landscape. Over the centuries, viticulture has become an integral part of the economy and culture of the Campi Flegrei, producing high-quality wines appreciated throughout the world.

The native vines of Campi Flegrei

The Campi Flegrei boast a rich variety of native vines, including Falanghina, Piedirosso and Coda di Volpe. These vines, grown in volcanic soils rich in minerals, give the Campi Flegrei wines unique and distinctive characteristics. The particular terroir of this region, influenced by volcanic activity and proximity to the sea, contributes to the production of wines of great complexity and personality.

The cellars and vineyards to visit

For those who want to immerse themselves in the winemaking tradition of the Campi Flegrei, it is possible to visit numerous cellars and vineyards in the area. Among the most renowned wineries are Cantine Astroni, Cantine Farro, and Cantine di Marzo, where it is possible to taste local wines and discover the secrets of wine production in this fascinating region. Furthermore, many vineyards offer guided tours and tastings, allowing visitors to savor the authentic flavors of Campi Flegrei wines.

In conclusion, the Campi Flegrei represent an unmissable stop for lovers of good wine and the Campania food and wine tradition. With their thousand-year history, their native vines and their evocative landscapes, the Campi Flegrei offer a unique and unforgettable experience for all those who wish to discover the hidden treasures of Campania viticulture.

Tastings in the vineyards of Irpinia

The land of wine in Irpinia

Irpinia is a region of Campania that boasts a long winemaking tradition, characterized by fertile soils and an ideal climate for growing vines. This area is famous for the production of high quality wines, including the famous Taurasi, considered one of the best red wines in Italy.

Wineries to visit

For wine lovers, a visit to the cellars of Irpinia is an experience not to be missed. Numerous wineries in the area offer guided tastings of their wines, allowing visitors to discover the secrets of local wine production. Among the most renowned wineries in Irpinia are Feudi di San Gregorio, Terredora di Paolo and Mastroberardino.

The tastings

Tastings in the vineyards of Irpinia are a unique opportunity to taste the typical wines of the area and discover the different nuances of taste and aroma that characterize them. During the tastings, visitors can taste red, white and rosé wines, pairing them with typical local products such as cheeses, cured meats and extra virgin olive oil.

Tastings in the vineyards of Irpinia are not only a moment of pleasure for the palate, but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture and food and wine traditions of the area, meeting passionate and expert producers who share their passion for wine .

For those who wish to deepen their knowledge of Irpinia's wines, many wineries also offer guided tours of the vineyards and production processes, allowing visitors to closely follow all the phases that lead to the creation of a good glass of wine .

In short, tastings in the vineyards of Irpinia are an unforgettable experience for all wine lovers who wish to discover the wine excellences of this splendid region of Campania.

The wine excellences of Sannio

The wine excellences of Sannio

The territory of Sannio

Sannio is a historical region located in the eastern part of Campania, characterized by hilly and mountainous landscapes, ideal for the cultivation of vines. This area is renowned for the production of fine wines, which boast a long winemaking tradition dating back to Roman times.

The wines of Sannio

The wines of Sannio are mainly based on native grapes such as Aglianico, Falanghina, Greco, and Fiano. Among the most famous wines produced in this region we find the famous Aglianico del Taburno DOCG, an intense and structured red wine, and the Falanghina del Sannio DOC, a fresh and aromatic white. Other fine wines are Greco di Tufo, Fiano di Avellino and Taurasi, all DOCG wines that represent the oenological excellence of the area.

The cellars of Sannio

The Sannio cellars are places not to be missed for wine lovers who want to learn more about the production process and taste the local wines. Numerous Sannio wineries offer guided tours and tastings, allowing visitors to discover the secrets of winemaking and savor the typical wines of the area.

Some wineries in Sannio also offer food and wine experiences, which include wine tastings paired with traditional local cuisine. These experiences offer a unique sensorial journey to discover the authentic flavors of Campania.

In conclusion, Sannio represents an unmissable destination for those who want to immerse themselves in the wine culture of Campania and savor high quality wines, the result of a long winemaking tradition and an area rich in history and natural beauty.

Excursions among the Cilento vineyards

The territory of Cilento

Cilento is a region of Campania that extends along the Tyrrhenian coast south of Salerno. This area is famous for its natural beauty, with breathtaking landscapes alternating between sea and mountains. But Cilento is not just sea and nature, it is also a land rich in food and wine traditions, in particular linked to the production of wine.

The cellars of Cilento

Excursions among the Cilento vineyards offer the opportunity to visit numerous wineries that produce high quality wines. Here it is possible to taste the typical wines of the area, such as Cilento DOC, Fiano di Avellino and Greco di Tufo, just to name a few.

Food and wine itineraries

Excursions among the Cilento vineyards allow tourists to completely immerse themselves in the wine culture of this region. Guided tours can be organized which include visits to the cellars, wine tastings and food and wine pairings with typical local products.

Furthermore, during excursions it is possible to admire the evocative landscapes of the Cilento vineyards, which extend between hills and valleys, offering unique and unforgettable views.

For those who love good wine and nature, excursions among the Cilento vineyards are an experience not to be missed during a trip to Campania.

Typical food and wine pairings

Neapolitan cuisine

Neapolitan cuisine is famous throughout the world for its richness of flavors and fresh, genuine ingredients. The food and wine pairings typical of the Neapolitan tradition include dishes such as pizza margherita, Genoese pasta, buffalo mozzarella, fresh fish from the Gulf of Naples and desserts such as Sfogliatella and Rum Babà. To accompany these dishes, we recommend tasting fresh and fruity white wines such as Falanghina or Greco di Tufo, or robust and structured red wines such as Aglianico del Taburno or Taurasi.

Campanian Cuisine

Campania cuisine is varied and rich in culinary traditions which are also reflected in the food and wine pairings typical of the region. Dishes such as pasta with sardines, fish soup, buffalo mozzarella and Ascoli olives go perfectly with fresh and aromatic white wines such as Fiano di Avellino or Greco di Tufo. For more structured and tasty dishes, we recommend opting for full-bodied and complex red wines such as Aglianico del Taburno or Taurasi.

Local products

In Campania, in addition to wines, you can taste a great variety of typical local products which lend themselves to interesting food and wine pairings. Cheeses such as buffalo mozzarella, provolone del Monaco and caciocavallo podolico go well with fresh, fruity white wines. Cured meats such as soppressata from Sannio, Neapolitan sausage and Montella ham go perfectly with structured and complex red wines.

Events and wine festivals in Campania

Wine Festival in Naples

One of the main wine-related events taking place in Campania is the Wine Festival in Naples. This festival offers visitors the opportunity to taste the best wines of the region, coming from different wineries and vineyards. During the event, it is possible to participate in guided tastings, meetings with local producers and food and wine workshops.

Grape Harvest Festival in Taurasi

The Harvest Festival in Taurasi is a traditional event held every year in October. During the festival, visitors can watch the grape harvest and take part in tastings of local wines, accompanied by typical dishes of the area. Furthermore, it is possible to visit the local cellars and take part in guided tours of the vineyards.

Wine Festival in Ravello

The Wine Festival in Ravello is an event that takes place in the evocative setting of the Amalfi Coast. During the festival, it is possible to taste local wines combined with traditional Campania gastronomic specialties. Furthermore, musical shows, art exhibitions and cultural events related to the world of wine are organised.

Festival of Independent Winemakers in Sorrento

The Festival of Independent Winemakers in Sorrento is an unmissable event for lovers of good wine. During the event, visitors can meet the wine producers directly, discover the production techniques and taste the wine excellences of the region. Furthermore, workshops and conferences on the topic of wine and viticulture are organised.