Taurasi Wine Region Guide

The cherished sub-region of Taurasi has an array of wines known worldwide for their significance and reputation. Located in sun-soaked Irpinia, Taurasi is a sub-region of the Campania region. Taurasi, Italy is DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita), which is much higher classification than DOC. Taurasi's unparalleled elegance is due to the region's specific climate, soil, and winemaking techniques. These elements produce a style of wine found nowhere else in Italy or the world. For that matter, Taurasi red wine, produced exclusively from the Aglianico grape variety, is one of the best and is a signature wine of southern Italy.

Find out more about Wine Tasting and Tours in Taurasi.

Where is the Taurasi wine region located?

Taurasi DOCG is a sub-region of Campania, southern Italy. Situated 50 kilometres from Naples, the major part of Taurasi wine appellation vineyards is within Irpinia province and Apennines hills of Avellino, covering 17 communes of 42000 hectares. Other prominent neighbouring wine sub-regions are Avellino, Tufo and Sannio, bordering Taurasi. However, many other wine appellations in the Campania are scattered throughout the region, such as Campi Flegrei, Castel San Lorenzo, Costa d'Amalfi, Galluccio, Vesuvio etc., all contributing to the great winemaking fame of the region. 

The history of the Taurasi wine region

Viticulture in the Taurasi wine region emerged as early as 800 BC, when the place was under Greek and Roman leadership. Also, the name of its primary grape variety Aglianico comes from the word "Ellenico", which means Greek. Taurasi was the first DOCG of the region; although it had already earned DOC status in 1970, the sub-region reached the highest denomination and became an authorized DOCG in 1993. After that, more and more wine producers were attracted to the region, leading to their even increased number. 

Taurasi wine region Terroir

Taurasi wine region terroir is one of the key success factors of Taurasi wine. Taurasi soil is mainly composed of calcareous clay, limestone, and elements from historical eruptions of Mount Vesuvius-the massive Avellino eruption nearly 4,000 years ago. The sub-region is believed to have retained the most volcanic characteristics; tuff, pumice, ash, and lapilli veins are found in the soil of various areas of Taurasi. All that leads to the refined tannins and moderate acidity of Taurasi wines, as well as ensures smoky and spicy notes in the wine. The altitude at which vineyards sit is at least 400 metres above sea level or even higher, the most optimal height for moderate sunlight exposure. The Taurasi wine region has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters, which once again makes the area ideal for growing grapes.

Taurasi wine characteristics

Taurasi wine region is famous for its exquisite dry red wine. Aglianico Taurasi is the primary and almost exclusive grape variety of the region. It is native to Campania, Italy, substantial for its dark blue colour, comparatively high acidity, juiciness and musky flavours. All Taurasi wines have a minimum alcohol content of 12% and must comprise at least 85% of local Aglianico; the rest of 15% or less is usually Piedirosso, Barbera or Sangiovese grape variety. Taurasi wines are full-bodied and have flavours of violet, red fruit like raspberries, cherries, and plums or smoky notes of freshly brewed coffee, cigar, and leather. The wines are also significant by their ageing potential, as they can last for one, two, or even three decades in some cases, getting even more flavourful by attaining fragrant, earthy notes over age. This advantageous feature makes Taurasi wines even more attractive in the wine market. Three years of ageing, of which 12 months is in the oak barrel, is mandatory for every wine type. Riservas must spend at least 18 months in a barrel to soften tannins. Taurasi vintage 1968 from Mastroberardino is regarded as the Best Taurasi wine, but one of the most expensive and not ubiquitous. Generally, all Taurasi wines are all about elegance and the right balance in taste.

Food to pair with Taurasi wine

Carne Pizzaiola

Carne Pizzaiola is a traditional meat dish from the Campania region, more specifically from Naples. This simple yet so delicious and refined beef steak is cooked on slow fire with tomato sauce made from tomatoes, garlic, onions, and olive oil and seasoned with basil and oregano. Like all other red meat, Carne Pizzaiola perfectly matches Taurasi red wine.

Lasagne di Carnevale

Like in the whole of Italy, Lasagne is also common in the Campania region, but this one is special. Lasagne di Carnevale is made of lasagne pasta layers, Neapolitan ragù as a basis of the sauce, pork meat, salsiccia, and ricotta to add more creaminess. After being cooked in the oven, this succulent dish is topped with a good amount of grated mozzarella cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper to taste. Lasagne di Carnevale is sometimes served with a green salad on the side and, of course, a glass of fine Aglianico. 

Provola cheese

Provola is a variant of provolone cheese, made from raw cow's milk; cheese is usually smoked and aged for at least four months. Provola is a table cheese and can attain different flavours; it is a great appetizer or on a cheese plate. Being a mature cheese, it is an excellent accompaniment to wine tasting, especially Taurasi wine, aligning its smoky notes with the rich cheese taste. 

Places to visit in the Taurasi wine region

Castello Marchionale

This historic building, in the centre of Taurasi, existing since the Lombard era, has endured many hard times and renovations, but today is remarkably well-preserved. In this impressive castle, you can discover the unique buildings with their carvings and learn more about Taurasi, Fiano Avellino, and Greco di Tufo wines, thanks to the pathways in the stables on the ground floor. Therefore, this historical monument is an absolute must-see to discover the region's characteristics and culture.

Museo Archeologico di Taurasi

The Archaeological Museum of Taurasi represents various archaeological finds throughout the region and is the first museum in this genre in Campania. Therefore, it carries great importance, as its exhibitions tell the history of the place reflected through the ceramic and other rare, archaic objects. It is an absolute recommendation to go when you visit the Taurasi wine area. 

Chiesa del Santissimo Rosario di Taurasi

The Church of the Santissimo Rosario dates back to the 16th century and was renovated in the early 19th and 20th centuries; however, the church's authenticity is preserved. The church has a single nave and monuments of saints in baroque style, representing the religious and cultural legacy of the region. 

Frequently Asked Questions about the Taurasi wine region