As we cruised along the Amalfi Coast in southern Italy, small vineyards stretched vertically up the side of the steep hills. The sun drenched vines grow in limestone based soil that receives sea breezes throughout the day. Grape varietals are predominantly white and compliment the abundant seafood offerings found on the “Costa d’Amalfi”.
With each meal we enjoyed in Amalfi, Positano, Ravello and on the Isle of Capri, we explored the various varietals. Ironically, one of my favorites was a red wine (Furore Rosso) produced by Marisa Cuomo, a young award winning female winemaker. Marisa Cuomo Winery describes their wines as possessing “flavours as authentic as the rock”.
Furore Rosso is 50% Piedirosso and 50% Aglianico grapes. The flavor reminds you of ripe cherries and licorice.
My favorite white wine was produced by Quintodecimo and is made from Fiano grapes. The Fiano grape varietal dates back to Roman times and has both a nutty (hazelnut) and spicy flavor.
Most of the wines we tried were from small producers (under 50,000 bottles per year) and may not be generally available in the United States. With that said, it’s always fun to go on the hunt!