In the heart of the Phlegraean Fields
We start right here, between Naples and Pozzuoli, until we reach the island of Procida, a volcanic area rich in sediments and minerals that gives life to the Campi Flegrei DOC. The minerality of the region can be found in the white wine, where Falanghina dominates with its floral scents, which blend with the salty note given by the marine influence. Then move on to red with Piedirosso, a very old grape variety appreciated by Pliny the Elder, still valued today by the area's winegrowers in wines with personality but great harmony.
The wines and landscapes of Vesuvius
Climbing up, the journey through the flavours of Campania continues to the discovery of Vesuvian wines. Traditional wines, originally brought from the countryside to Naples by the typical wine cart, which we know today as DOC Vesuvio. This designation originated as an idea for a blend, in which the Lacryma Christi stands out as a precious wine, produced by a few dozen wine cellars from grapes of Piedirosso, Aglianico and Sciascinoso, one of the area's historic vines. A distinctive name linked to an equally curious legend. In fact, it is said that Jesus Christ, grieving over Lucifer being cast out of Paradise, wept and from his tears the vines flourished on the Gulf of Naples, the place of origin of this wine. For adventure lovers, you can't miss the excursion to the Vesuvius National Park, covered by eleven trails that offer unforgettable views of the local fauna and flora.
The wines and villages of Irpinia
Our journey continues inland, towards Tufo, a small village in the heart ofIrpinia, whose name derives from the rich subsoil of this volcanic rock. An ideal habitat for Greco Bianco, a demanding grape variety in an equally difficult and fascinating terrain, which results in the Greco di Tufo DOCG. A fresh, mineral and elegant white wine that is also suitable for long maturation, a true pride for the region. Also in the province of Avellino we find the small village of Lapio, home of the Fiano di Avellino DOCG, a wine scented with citrus notes, a true pearl of Irpinia. A few kilometres away we discover Aglianico, the king of the reds of the south. A love story between Campania and this vine, which blossoms in the Taurasi DOCG. A full-bodied wine, soft and spicy on the palate, to be enjoyed in both the classic and riserva versions, where it develops even more complex nuances. Do not miss a visit to Ariano Irpino with its characteristic Norman Castle, in Summonte among the white limestone and mountains, and finishing in Montella, a municipality known for the production of chestnuts. Just a few of the many villages set in the green Irpinia landscape.
On the slopes of the Taburno
Leaving Irpinia we head north to the province of Benevento, in the ancient land of the Samnites, cradle of the Taburno DOCG. The other version of Aglianico, fresh and citrusy in the rosé, enveloping and complex in the red. Not just wine, but also a fascinating and little-known unspoilt area, the Taburno-Camposauro Park, which offers a variety of landscapes to be discovered on foot or by bicycle. We start in Sant'Agata de' Goti, a village on the slopes of Mount Taburno, considered one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. Among caves of rock paintings, perched villages, waterfalls and natural pools, "the sleeper of Sannio", sso nicknamed because of its shape reminiscent of a woman lying down, holds a varied historical and natural heritage of inestimable value.
Along the Amalfi Coast, a gem that overlooks the sea
Back to the sea, among the paradise-like views of the Amalfi Coast. The rocks stroked by the sea, the vineyard terraces, the colourful villages embedded, create a truly evocative landscape, best admired with a glass of Costa d’Amalfi DOC. A denomination of a thousand colours and flavours, to be discovered with a glass of white, also in passito and sparkling wine versions, and the red where Aglianico and Piedirosso return as the stars. In between tastings, you can immerse yourself in the small ceramic workshops of Vietri sul Mare, strolling through Ravello to the Sentiero dei Limoni, the ancient road connecting the towns of Maiori and Minori.
To discover the wine cellars of the Movimento Turismo del Vino Campania go to http://www.movimentoturismovino.it/risultati.php?reg=CAM&zona_produzione=&servizio=&evento=
