Cantina Giardino Drogone Aglianico 2019

Cantina Giardino is a winery in Irpinia, Campania region, Southern Italy. Cantina Giardino is headed by Antonio and Daniela di Gruttola, who, together with four other friends, vinify grapes sourced from 16 parcels from all over the area. Cantina Giardino also recently purchased 2.5 hectares of vineyards, primarily old vines. This was the goal of Cantina Giardino from its inception: to rescue older vines of 50 years or more from local farmers who would've abandoned them.

Cantina Giardino works with indigenous varietals such as Aglianico, Coda di Volpe, Greco, and Fiano grapes, vinified into reds, whites, and rosé. The labels are created every vintage by local artists and are colorful and distinct. Vinification varies with every vintage: grapes are fermented and aged in homemade amphora vessels, stainless steel, oak barrels, chestnut barrels, and demi-muits. Sulfur is used only when it's necessary. Otherwise, the only ingredient in Cantina Giardino's wines is sustainably farmed grapes.

Campania, located in southern Italy, is a region steeped in history and renowned for its exceptional wines. Its winemaking traditions date back to ancient times when the Greeks and Romans cultivated vineyards in the fertile soils of this region. Today, Campania is celebrated for its unique terroir, diverse grape varieties, and the distinctive character of its wines, which range from robust reds to aromatic whites.

Terroir and Climate

Campania's varied terroir is one of its greatest strengths. The region benefits from a combination of volcanic soils, particularly around Mount Vesuvius, limestone-rich hills, and the Mediterranean climate. These volcanic soils are particularly well-draining and rich in minerals, giving wines a distinct mineral edge. The climate is typically Mediterranean, with hot summers and mild winters moderated by cooling coastal breezes. This combination of warm, sunny days and cool nights helps the grapes develop balanced acidity and full flavor.

The vineyards in Campania are often situated on slopes, sometimes at high altitudes, which further enhances the diversity of the region's wines. The differences in altitude, soil composition, and microclimates allow various grapes to thrive.

Grape Varieties

Campania is home to several indigenous grape varieties not widely grown elsewhere in Italy. Some of the most notable varieties include:

• Aglianico: One of the region's most important red grapes, Aglianico is known for producing full-bodied wines with high tannins and acidity that are capable of long aging. It is the backbone of Taurasi DOCG, often called the "Barolo of the South" due to its complexity and aging potential.
• Fiano: A white grape that produces the elegant Fiano di Avellino, a wine known for its floral aromas, honeyed notes, and minerality. Fiano is often described as having a rich, textured palate with pear, hazelnut, and citrus flavors.​
• Greco: Another ancient white grape, Greco, is used to produce Greco di Tufo DOCG, a crisp, aromatic, and mineral-driven wine often marked by notes of stone fruits, almonds, and a distinct saline finish.
• Piedirosso: Often used in blends with Aglianico, Piedirosso adds softness and fruitiness to wines. It is sometimes bottled as a varietal wine and is especially prominent in Lacrima Christi del Vesuvio, a historic wine produced on the slopes of Mount Vesuvius​.
• Coda di Volpe: This indigenous white grape variety is less known internationally but is increasingly recognized for producing mineral-rich, fresh wines like Cantina Giardino's Volpe Rosa​.

Notable Wine Appellations

Campania boasts several prestigious wine designations, the most important being DOCG and DOC appellations that safeguard the quality of the wines:

• Taurasi DOCG: Made from Aglianico, Taurasi is Campania's most famous red wine. It is known for its deep structure, high tannins, and capacity to age for decades. Taurasi wines often show flavors of dark fruits, leather, and spices.
• Fiano di Avellino DOCG: This white wine is praised for its floral aromas and rich texture. It ages well and develops complexity over time, with toasted nuts and honey notes.
• Greco di Tufo DOCG: One of Italy's finest white wines, Greco di Tufo is known for its crisp acidity, intense aromas, and mineral-driven palate. Its saline finish pairs excellently with seafood.
• Lacrima Christi del Vesuvio DOC: This designation refers to wines made from vines grown on the slopes of Mount Vesuvius, using local varieties like Piedirosso and Coda di Volpe. The red and white wines are known for their vibrant fruitiness and volcanic minerality.​

Winemaking Philosophy

In recent years, Campania has become a hub for natural and organic winemaking. Many producers focus on low-intervention methods that highlight the fruit's purity and the region's unique terroir. Wineries like Cantina Giardino, which specializes in producing wines with Indigenous grapes and minimal intervention, are gaining international recognition for their distinct and authentic expressions​.

Additionally, many winemakers are reviving ancient varieties and techniques, which reflect the region's long history and deep connection to the land. These wines, often fermented with natural yeasts and aged in amphorae or large neutral vessels, offer a fresh take on Campania's winemaking heritage.