Taurasi DOCG is one of Campania’s defining red-wine denominations, situated in the rolling inland landscape of the province of Avellino, in historic Irpinia. Its vineyard area has a continental character tempered by its Apennine setting: warm summers, cool nights and a long growing season encourage gradual, even ripening. Vineyards are generally located on mid- to high-elevation hillsides. Soils of clay, limestone, marl and sand, sometimes with volcanic influences, create varying expressions of spice, mineral definition, structure and freshness from place to place.
Aglianico is the leading grape and the essential voice of the denomination, accounting for at least 85 percent of the blend; other authorised local red varieties may complete it. A late-ripening variety, Aglianico naturally combines firm acidity, abundant tannin and deep colour. Viticulture depends on attentive site selection, well-aerated canopies and precise management of ripening, allowing the grape’s powerful tannins to mature fully while retaining tension and aromatic detail.
Winemaking generally seeks measured extraction during fermentation on the skins. Temperature control, the length of maceration, and the use of concrete, steel or wood influence both texture and stylistic expression. Ageing is central to the identity of Taurasi: regulations require at least three years of maturation from 1 November of the harvest year, including a minimum of one year in wood. Riserva requires at least four years of maturation, with no less than 18 months in wood. Large casks and barriques are both used, according to the producer’s approach, to shape the wine’s structure without obscuring Aglianico’s austere core.
The name recalls ancient Taurasia, a Samnite settlement. The modern standing of the denomination rests on the renewed recognition of Aglianico’s potential in Irpinia and on wines for which evolution in cellar and bottle is fundamental to their character.
