Campania, on Italy’s southern coast near Naples, offers a different perspective, with sun, proximity to the sea, and a deep history reflected in its native grape varieties.

You may not recognize as many of the names here, but the wines are some of Italy’s most distinctive. We’ll taste four examples that highlight the region’s native grapes like Fiano, Greco, and Aglianico, and talk about how volcanic soils (thanks to nearby Mount Vesuvius) and coastal influences shape their character.

If Piedmont is about precision and form, Campania opens the door to something more relaxed and expressive, shaped by a rich cultural history.