Essential Wineries to Explore When Visiting Naples, Italy

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Naples has gained immense popularity as a travel destination in recent years. However, after experiencing the vibrant hustle and bustle of the city — and indulging in what many declare to be the world’s finest pizza — it can be refreshing to escape into the nearby countryside and explore the exquisite wineries located in the Campania region.

Further ventures east to the sun-kissed landscapes of Puglia or south to the rolling hills of Calabria offer delightful alternatives for wine enthusiasts.

In Southern Italy, the winemaking predominantly showcases bold red wines from indigenous grapes like Aglianico, Gaglioppo, and Negroamaro. Yet, there are remarkable white wines waiting to be discovered. Many wineries, especially those highlighted in this article, also feature outstanding dining establishments and, in some instances, accommodations that provide a perfect blend of comfort and local charm.

Ceraudo, Calabria: Crotone

Situated on a hillside with a view of the Ionian Sea on the Calabrian coast, Strongoli, once called Petelia, reflects a rich history dating back to when the region was part of Magna Graecia. The Ceraudo family’s winery is nestled within this idyllic landscape, creating a serene atmosphere that evokes a sense of antiquity.

The terroir around Crotone is ideal for viticulture, benefiting from the unique soil characteristics and the moderating influence of the sea, which contributes to a steady climate. However, the Ceraudo estate is not limited to vineyards alone; it also encompasses a vast Mediterranean garden and is dotted with ancient olive trees and citrus groves. The heart of the estate is marked by a historic 17th-century baronial building, wine cellar, oil mill, a quaint church, and a welcoming agriturismo facility.

The dining venue, formerly known as Dattilo — named after a mythical race in Greek mythology — has earned a Michelin star since 2011 and is also recognized for its eco-friendly practices. Under the leadership of Caterina Ceraudo, the restaurant delights visitors with innovative dishes crafted from ingredients sourced primarily from its organic farm.

The family-run estate features roles for each member: marketing and hospitality are overseen by Susanna Ceraudo, agronomic management by Giuseppe Ceraudo, and Caterina serves as the head chef. The focus on premium oil and wine is complemented by an overarching commitment to hospitality, providing a tranquil sanctuary for guests seeking respite.

Amidst the centuries-old olive trees and fragrant maritime flora, guests can choose from rooms or mini-apartments adorned with local ceramics, ensuring a sense of place that highlights the region’s historical and natural significance. Ceraudo offers a variety of experiences that go beyond tastings, delving into the area’s archaeological sites, wellness, and scenic beauty.

Activities available include horseback riding, sailing, yoga, and guided nature walks. Visitors can also enjoy forest bathing in the nearby Pantano Natural Oasis, traversing paths lined with stone pines, elms, and other indigenous trees.

To start the day right, Caterina’s gourmet breakfasts feature artisan bread, local cured meats and cheeses, along with fresh fruit and organic condiments derived from the estate’s produce.

Wine to Try

Ceraudo Val di Neto Dattilo Gaglioppo

Harvested at night and produced from organically farmed grapes in Strongoli, this wine represents a classic expression of the Gaglioppo varietal, featuring a structured and spicy profile that pairs well with the robust flavors characteristic of Calabrian cuisine.

Feudi di San Gregorio, Campania: Avellino

Feudi di San Gregorio produced Serpico, one of the pioneering wines from Campania. This 100% Aglianico red—though aged for a shorter time than traditional Taurasi—has achieved global acclaim since its debut in the mid-1990s.

It’s notable that while a wine label does not inherently define quality, Feudi’s sleek and modern design, conceptualized by renowned graphic designer Massimo Vignelli — famous for the New York City subway map — encapsulates the philosophy of proprietor Antonio Capaldo: the creation of wine resembles an artistic endeavor.

This artistic vision is reflected in the winery’s architecture, designed by Hikaru Mori and Maurizio Zito. The winery’s modernist aesthetic harmoniously integrates with its natural surroundings. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted with the building’s striking lines and steel roof that appears to float above the gardens. As guests descend underground, they encounter a cooler, darker ambiance housing the tasting area, which is brilliantly suspended over rows of wooden barrels, merging nature with craftsmanship. An inspiring quote from Vignelli adorns a wall in red neon: “The Three Fundamental Bridges in Life Are: Vision, Courage, Determination. He Who Does Not Own Him Deserves Failure.”

The winery experience extends beyond the building itself, part of a larger initiative known as Borgo San Gregorio.

At the remarkable restaurant San Gregorio, led by chef Danilo Uva, culinary creations utilize fresh produce from the estate’s gardens, offering dishes like barbecued “Laticauda” lamb complemented with white mulberry chutney.

Guests can enjoy accommodations at Naturalia Maison and Botanica Maison, enriching their experience beyond mere wine tasting to include explorations of art, architecture, diverse dining experiences, and picnics on the estate grounds.

Wine to Try

Feudi di San Gregorio Serpico

Serpico impresses with its power and sophistication, showcasing dark fruity notes balanced with refreshing acidity. This signature wine, derived from the historic “Dal Re” vineyard of pre-phylloxera Aglianico vines, boasts the rare quality of age-worthiness while remaining enjoyable upon release.

Gianfranco Fino, Puglia

Founded in 2004, the Alberto winery, operated by winemaker Gianfranco Fino and Simona Natale, has been instrumental in elevating the profile of Negroamaro and revitalizing Primitivo di Manduria. Their venture began with the acquisition of an ancient 2.2-acre Primitivo vineyard, and in a short span, Gianfranco Fino has gained recognition for excellence, especially with their Primitivo Manduria ES, an intense and award-winning red.

More than just a winery, Gianfranco Fino serves as a notable destination for ecotourism. In 2021, they unveiled a new cellar characterized by modern, eco-sustainable design, constructed with local stone and wood, seamlessly integrating into the landscape.

The new facility encompasses winemaking and aging rooms, alongside four visitor suites with vineyard views. A wine bar in the courtyard and a tasting room complement a charming event space and a Michelin-starred gourmet restaurant.

ES Cantina & Ristorante, featuring a panoramic terrace, is directed by chef Simone Profeta. His menu draws inspiration from local ingredients, often sourced directly from the estate’s organic garden, evolving with the seasons, and designed specifically to complement the winery’s offerings, including dishes like spaghettone with oyster sauce and braised veal cheeks.

Wine to Try

Gianfranco Fino Negroamaro Salento Jo

The name “Jo,” reminiscent of the Ionian Sea, reflects the origin of this remarkable wine, crafted from ancient vines that yield exceptional, red-fruited, savory Negroamaro.

I Cacciagalli, Campania

Although the Caserta region may not initially stand out in the wine tourism landscape, it captivates visitors with its stunning beauty, particularly near the ancient volcano Roccamonfina. The charm of this area is matched by the quality of wines produced here.

The offerings from I Cacciagalli, a winery established by the Iannaccone family in an 18th-century farmhouse, showcase the region’s potential. Now expanded and modernized, the estate boasts 30 acres of vineyards dedicated to native varieties such as Fiano, Falanghina, Pallagrello Nero, and Piedirosso, all tended using biodynamic practices amidst olive groves and pristine forest.

Today, Diana Iannaccone and Mario Basco manage I Cacciagalli, overseers of the estate’s wine resort, which features eight guest rooms, the Humus restaurant, which emphasizes local produce, and a serene swimming lake, purified using coconut microfiber.

Guests can partake in tastings of wine and extra virgin olive oil, paired with local fare, including innovative dishes like chickpea hummus with curry and buffalo stracciata.

Among the various tasting experiences, the one focusing on amphora wine production is particularly noteworthy.

Wine to Try

I Cacciagalli Fiano Roccamonfina Zagreo

This fresh, spicy white wine, with extended skin contact creating an orange hue, is produced from biodynamic Fiano grapes grown in volcanic soils around Teano, and is vinified using traditional clay amphora techniques.

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