The Sorrento Peninsula is home to coastal and hillside viticulture shaped by the convergence of the Gulf of Naples, the Lattari Mountains and an agricultural landscape characterised by slopes, terraces and valleys. The mild and sunny Mediterranean climate benefits from the proximity of the sea and good ventilation, conditions that promote balanced ripening of the grapes and preserve their freshness and aromas.
The geology plays a decisive role in shaping the area’s identity. The soils comprise volcanic materials, ash, lapilli and tuff, often combined with dolomitic substrates and permeable soils, well-suited to hillside viticulture. Terraced layouts, together with careful management of aspect and slope, are an essential part of agricultural practice and enable the full potential of plots spread across inland areas, hillsides and sea-facing locations to be realised.
The appellation’s ampelographic heritage brings together highly distinctive varieties from Campania. Among the white wines, Falanghina predominates, alongside Biancolella and Greco, with profiles that are generally dry, harmonious and well-reflecting the terroir. Among the reds, the central role is played by Piedirosso, locally known as Per’ and Palummo, accompanied by Sciascinoso – also known as Olivella – and Aglianico. These yield medium-bodied red wines that are full-flavoured and pleasantly tannic.
The DOC also includes wines from the sub-zones of Sorrento, Gragnano and Lettere. Particularly distinctive is the naturally sparkling red wine, produced in the Gragnano and Lettere areas, where its lively flavour blends with local tradition. The history of winemaking here has its roots in Greek and Roman antiquity, when wines from the Lattari Mountains were already highly regarded and transported by sea. Today, the Sorrento Peninsula preserves this heritage through careful viticulture, closely linked to the landscape and traditional practices.