Taurasi DOCG: The Barolo of the South - Italy’s Hidden Icon

Here in the mountains of Irpinia, far from the crowds of coastal Campania, lies one of Italy’s most extraordinary wines: Taurasi DOCG. Often called the Barolo of the South because of the similarities between the two wines, Taurasi is bold, elegant, and built to last. Taurasi is made from Aglianico grapes and is full of tannins, acidity, bold red fruit flavors and even tobacco. This a wine that expresses the volcanic soils and quiet strength of its homeland.

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• The Birthplace of Southern Italy’s First DOCG Red: While Tuscany and Piedmont often steal the spotlight when it comes to Italian red wines, it's Taurasi that quietly made history when in 1993, Taurasi became the first red wine in Southern Italy to earn DOCG status. This recognition confirmed what locals already knew: that Aglianico reaches its highest expression in the mountain hills of Irpinia.
  

• What Makes Taurasi Unique: Taurasi is crafted from at least 85% Irpinia Aglianico, and the rules require long aging: 3 years minimum (1 in wood), 4 years for Riserva (at least 18 months in wood). But I don't know a single quality producer whose Taurasi isn't nearly 100% Irpinia Aglianico with at least 5 years of aging before coming to market. The reason we can't say 100% Aglianico is that the old vines are sometimes mixed with a row or two of Piedirosso or another red variety based on ancient methods. The slow maturation process of Taurasi softens Aglianico’s natural tannins, creating a wine with: Dark cherry and black plum, leather and tobacco, licorice, spice, and volcanic minerality and a long, structured finish. These flavor differences depend on which village the grapes are grown, a similarity to the wines and grapes just like you'd find in Burgundy.

  
  

• The Terroir: Altitude, Ash, and Cool Nights: Irpinia is one of Italy’s coolest southern wine regions. Vineyards sit between 400–700 meters, with dramatic swings between day and night temperatures. Irpinia’s volcanic soils give Taurasi its structure and longevity. The soil? A mix of: Volcanic ash, limestone, and clay. This unique combination gives Taurasi its signature tension, freshness, and age-worthy depth.
  

• Why Taurasi Is Compared to Barolo: Taurasi is often compared to Barolo because both wines share: big tannins, high acidity, extraordinary longevity, and complex aromatics that evolve over decades. But Taurasi remains a hidden gem, offering world-class quality at a fraction of the price of its northern counterpart.

  
  

• How to Enjoy Taurasi: Pair it with Irpinia’s most flavorful dishes: braised lamb, wild boar ragù, aged pecorino, grilled meats, or mushrooms and truffles. The most important things is to enjoy it slowly, as locals do, with conversation and good company.

  
  

• Visiting Irpinia & Tasting Taurasi: Wine lovers visiting Campania should not miss the chance to explore Irpinia’s cantine. Don't miss the chance for an intimate tasting with the winemaker and their family. Send me a note and we'll get you set up on a bespoke Taurasi adventure of your own.

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