Exploring Taurasi: Campania’s Wine Gem
Taurasi, nestled in the picturesque hills of Campania, Italy, is a wine lover’s paradise. This region is renowned for its robust red wines, particularly the DOCG-classified Taurasi, often called the “Barolo of the South.”
Towns and Villages
The town of Taurasi itself is a charming medieval village, perfect for wandering cobblestone streets and absorbing Italian culture. Nearby, visit Avellino, the provincial capital, for its historical sites and bustling markets.
Don’t miss Mirabella Eclano, an archaeological treasure trove with Roman ruins, or the picturesque Lapio, known for its excellent white wines.
Wine Producers
- Mastroberardino: A pioneer in preserving local grape varieties, offering guided tours and tastings.
- Feudi di San Gregorio: Modern winery with a Michelin-starred restaurant and contemporary art installations.
- Terredora Di Paolo: Family-run estate focusing on indigenous grapes, with beautiful vineyards to explore.
- Antonio Caggiano: Unique cellar carved into volcanic rock, showcasing traditional winemaking methods.
Accommodations
For a luxurious stay, book a room at Aquapetra Resort & Spa in nearby Telese Terme. Wine enthusiasts will love Feudi di San Gregorio Wine Resort, offering vineyard views and wine-themed experiences.
In Taurasi proper, try the charming B&B Il Torchio for a cozy, authentic stay. For a unique experience, consider Agriturismo Le Masciare, a working farm with rustic accommodations.
Dining
Marennà at Feudi di San Gregorio offers Michelin-starred cuisine paired with estate wines. In Taurasi, La Ripa serves traditional Irpinian dishes with a modern twist.
For casual dining, try Osteria Tancredi in Avellino or Locanda di Bu in Nusco for authentic local flavors. Don’t miss the chance to pair your meals with Taurasi DOCG wines.
Wine Shops & Bars
Enoteca Coppola in Taurasi offers an extensive selection of local wines, including rare vintages. Visit Eno-One in Avellino for a modern wine bar experience with a curated list of Campanian wines.
For a unique tasting, head to La Cantina di Enzo in Mirabella Eclano, where the owner shares his passion for Taurasi wines. Don’t miss Vineria Nabuco in Atripalda for its intimate atmosphere and knowledgeable staff.
Other Shops
Pick up local gourmet products at Salumeria Luongo in Taurasi, known for its artisanal cheeses and cured meats. In Avellino, visit Mercato Coperto for fresh produce and regional specialties.
For wine-related gifts, check out Bottega del Vino in Taurasi, offering handcrafted wine accessories and local ceramics. Bookworms will appreciate Libreria Guida in Avellino for its selection of books on Campanian wines and cuisine.
Attractions
Explore the Taurasi Castle, a medieval fortress offering panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards. Visit the Archaeological Park of Aeclanum in Mirabella Eclano to see ancient Roman ruins.
Nature lovers should hike the Partenio Regional Park, showcasing the area’s diverse flora and fauna. For a cultural experience, attend a performance at the historic Teatro Carlo Gesualdo in Avellino.
Events
Don’t miss the annual Taurasi Wine Festival in September, featuring tastings, workshops, and local food pairings. The Fiano Love Fest in nearby Lapio celebrates the region’s white wines each August.
Experience the Sagra della Castagna (Chestnut Festival) in Montella during October, showcasing local products and traditional music. Wine enthusiasts should plan for Cantine Aperte (Open Cellars) in May, when many wineries offer special tours and tastings.
Appellations
The Taurasi DOCG is the region’s crown jewel, producing powerful, age-worthy red wines. Other notable appellations include Fiano di Avellino DOCG and Greco di Tufo DOCG for white wines.
Look for wines from the Irpinia DOC, which covers a broader range of styles and grape varieties. The Aglianico d’Irpinia DOC offers excellent reds at more accessible prices than Taurasi.
Grape Varieties
Taurasi, known as the “Barolo of the South,” is made primarily from the Aglianico grape. This thick-skinned, late-ripening variety thrives in Campania’s volcanic soils.
Other grapes found in the region include:
- Piedirosso (red)
- Greco (white)
- Fiano (white)
- Falanghina (white)
Main Wine Styles
Taurasi DOCG wines are the stars of the region. These robust reds must contain at least 85% Aglianico and age for a minimum of 3 years before release.
Other notable styles include:
- Taurasi Riserva: Aged for at least 4 years
- Irpinia Aglianico DOC: Lighter, fresher expressions of Aglianico
- Fiano di Avellino DOCG: Elegant white wines
- Greco di Tufo DOCG: Mineral-driven white wines
Food Specialties
Campanian cuisine pairs perfectly with local wines. Must-try dishes include:
- Caciocavallo Podolico: A rare, aged cheese from Podolica cattle
- Ziti alla Genovese: Pasta with slow-cooked onion sauce
- Minestra Maritata: A hearty soup of meat and greens
- Castagne di Montella: IGP-protected chestnuts
Drives & Walks
Explore the stunning Irpinia countryside with these routes:
- Taurasi Wine Road: A scenic drive connecting major wineries
- Monte Terminio Trail: Hike through beech forests and vineyards
- Valle del Sabato: Picturesque river valley dotted with vineyards
Itineraries
3-Day Taurasi Wine Tour
Day 1: Visit Feudi di San Gregorio winery, explore Taurasi village
Day 2: Tour Mastroberardino winery, hike Monte Terminio
Day 3: Explore Avellino, taste Fiano and Greco wines at local enotecas
5-Day Campania Wine & Culture Experience
Days 1-2: Taurasi wineries and local cuisine
Day 3: Visit Pompeii ruins, taste Lacryma Christi wines
Day 4: Explore Naples, enjoy pizza and Aglianico pairings
Day 5: Day trip to Ischia for seafood and local white wines
Getting There & Around
The nearest airport is Naples International Airport (NAP), about 70 km from Taurasi.
- By car: Rent a vehicle at the airport for flexibility in exploring wineries
- By bus: AIR buses connect Naples to Avellino, the provincial capital
- By train: Take the Naples-Benevento line to Avellino, then use local buses
Best Time to Visit
Visit Taurasi during September and October for the grape harvest season.
- Spring (April-May): Mild weather, fewer crowds
- Summer (June-August): Warm, ideal for outdoor activities
- Fall (September-November): Harvest festivals, beautiful foliage
- Winter (December-February): Cozy winery visits, potential for snow
Sustainability Efforts
Many Taurasi wineries prioritize eco-friendly practices:
- Organic viticulture: Feudi di San Gregorio leads in sustainable farming
- Solar power: Mastroberardino uses renewable energy in production
- Water conservation: Drip irrigation systems reduce water waste
- Biodiversity: Cover crops and wildlife corridors protect local ecosystems
Language Tips
Learn these wine-related Italian phrases:
- Vino rosso/bianco: Red/white wine
- Cantina: Winery
- Degustazione: Wine tasting
- Salute: Cheers
- Per favore/Grazie: Please/Thank you
Further Resources
Enhance your Taurasi wine knowledge with these resources:
- Books: “Native Wine Grapes of Italy” by Ian D’Agata
- Websites: Consorzio Tutela Vini d’Irpinia
- Apps: Vivino for wine ratings and reviews
- Local guide: Contact Taurasi Pro Loco for expert-led tours
