Wines Irpinia Nativ - San Quirico Gold - 2018

Viniou Reviews

The Nativ Cuvée San Quirico Gold 2018 is a red wine from the Irpinia DOC, situated in the Campania region of southern Italy. This vintage typically features local grape varieties such as Aglianico, which is renowned for producing structured and age-worthy wines, often blended with other indigenous varieties to add complexity and balance. The 2018 harvest benefitted from favourable weather, resulting in ripe, concentrated fruit. The wine is vinified using modern techniques yet with respect for tradition, allowing for full expression of the grape and terroir. Expect a wine of deep colour, generous fruit—think black cherry and plum—enhanced by notes of spice, earth, and subtle oak from barrel ageing. The palate is robust, with polished tannins and a long, elegant finish.

Campania is one of Italy’s oldest and most historically rich viticultural regions, known since Roman times for its volcanic soils and specific microclimates. Irpinia, set inland and with higher elevations, enjoys a continental climate with warm days and cool nights, which is ideal for preserving freshness and aromatic intensity in the grapes. The volcanic subsoil imparts a distinctive minerality and depth that sets Irpinia wines apart, reflecting the complex geological history of Mount Vesuvius and the surrounding Apennine Mountains.

Pair this wine with hearty dishes that can balance its structure and intensity. Traditional Campanian fare offers excellent matches—think slow-cooked lamb with rosemary, wild boar ragù over pappardelle, or aubergine parmigiana. The wine's tannins and fruit also pair beautifully with aged cheeses like pecorino or caciocavallo. For a more international approach, grilled steaks, braised beef, or mushroom risotto will highlight its depth and character.

For optimal appreciation, serve the Nativ Cuvée San Quirico Gold 2018 at 16-18°C, allowing the wine to breathe for an hour before tasting. This will release its complex aromatics and soften the tannins, delivering a harmonious and rewarding experience at the table.