Taurasi, a historic village in Campania’s Avellino province, is home to one of Italy’s most prestigious red wines—Aglianico. Known as the "Barolo of the South" for its unparalleled aging potential, Taurasi’s volcanic soils and high-altitude vineyards provide the ideal environment for crafting wines of exceptional depth and structure. The legacy of Aglianico is deeply intertwined with Roman history, and some believe it was the chosen wine of Emperor Augustus himself.
At the heart of this tradition stands Antico Borgo, a boutique winery dedicated to preserving the essence of Taurasi through artisan winemaking. Founded by Raffaele Inglese and Baldo di Sessa, this micro-winery focuses on handcrafted, small-batch wines that reflect the soul of their volcanic terroir. Baldo’s grandfather left him abandoned vineyards with exceptional soil at 1,000 feet above sea level. When Raffaele retired from working with large-scale Taurasi producers, he joined Baldo on a mission to create wines that honor the rich history and complexity of Aglianico.
The Wines of Antico Borgo
Aglianico Irpinia DOC – A Hidden Gem
A more approachable expression of Aglianico at 13% alcohol, this wine is elegant yet structured, with notes of dark cherry, violets, and subtle spice. Perfect for everyday meals, it offers an incredible balance of flavor and value.
Campi Taurasini DOC – The Baby Taurasi
Aged for one year in French and American oak, this 100% Aglianico is full-bodied, aromatic, and deeply layered. With just 4,000 bottles produced annually, it’s a rare find, ideal for lovers of bold reds that pair beautifully with meat dishes, ragù, and aged cheeses.
Taurasi Riserva DOCG – A Testament to Time
A true collector’s wine, this 3,000-bottle production undergoes an extended aging process—three to four years in oak, followed by two to three years in bottle before release. Built for longevity, it develops profound notes of black fruit, tobacco, and volcanic minerality, rewarding those who wait with an experience unlike any other.
Fiano di Avellino DOCG – A White Wine with a Red’s Aging Potential
Not to be overshadowed by Aglianico, Antico Borgo also produces Fiano di Avellino, one of Italy’s most age-worthy white wines. This full-bodied, highly perfumed wine evolves beautifully over a decade, moving from citrus and white flowers to stone fruit, toasted almond, and smoky minerality. With only 10,000 bottles made annually, it’s a must-try for fans of refined whites.
Discover Antico Borgo’s Artisan Wines
For wine lovers, experience these remarkable wines firsthand at https://www.italianwine.store/collections/campania
Explore the history, passion, and craftsmanship behind Antico Borgo, and discover why Taurasi remains the benchmark for Southern Italy’s greatest wines.
