Wines Irpinia 25 Rare Irpinia Greco - Nativ - 2018

Viniou Reviews

25 Rare Irpinia Greco 2018 is a captivating white wine hailing from the heart of Campania, Italy. Crafted primarily from the Greco grape, a variety with ancient roots that thrives in this region, it showcases what makes southern Italian whites so distinctive. The 2018 vintage presents itself with freshness and poise, offering a delicate balance between ripe orchard fruit – think golden apple and pear – and a lively citrus edge, underpinned by a subtle mineral note characteristic of the Greco variety. Being a demi-sec, there is a gentle touch of sweetness that rounds out the palate, enhancing both aromatic expression and mouthfeel.

This wine owes much of its personality to the Irpinia DOC, a region nestled inland within Campania and known for its volcanic soils and high-altitude vineyards. The area’s unique terroir is shaped by cool mountain air from the Apennines and rich, mineral-laden soils formed from ancient volcanic activity. These conditions allow grapes like Greco to develop remarkable freshness, aromatic complexity, and a signature mineral streak. Campania itself boasts a rich winemaking tradition tracing back to Greek and Roman times, with the Greco grape having been introduced by settlers from Thessaly centuries ago. The combination of history and geology have allowed wines from Irpinia, particularly Greco-based whites, to achieve both recognition and a devoted following among enthusiasts.

For food pairings, the semi-sweet profile of this Greco makes it an ideal companion to a variety of dishes. Traditional Campanian cuisine is a natural match: try seafood risotto, grilled prawns, or linguine alle vongole to complement the wine’s bright acidity and subtle fruit. The demi-sec style also allows for surprising harmony with mildly spicy dishes, such as prawn tempura or Thai coconut chicken, and works beautifully with young, creamy goat cheeses.

To enjoy 25 Rare Irpinia Greco 2018 in all its nuance, serve it well-chilled at 8-10°C. This will keep its freshness vibrant while allowing the delicate sweetness and mineral notes to shine through on the palate.