Welcome to Wines Worth Exploring, a series where I shine a light on lesser-known wines from around the world. Whether you’re already curious about unique varietals or just starting to explore beyond the classics, these wines offer something new to discover. Let’s get started with Greco di Tufo from one of my favorite wine countries, Italy. Take a sip, explore, and let me know which ones stand out for you!
Campania, Italy
Campania lies on Italy’s western coast, serving as the gateway to the south. Just north of the ‘toe’ of the boot with Naples as its capital. The region is also home to Pompeii, the city famously destroyed by Mount Vesuvius’s eruption in 79 AD.
With its stunning coastline, warm sunny days, rolling hills, and volcanic soil, Campania offers ideal conditions for grapevines. While the wines are less well-known, the region produces outstanding whites and reds. One of my favorites is Greco di Tufo—let’s dive in.
Getting to Know Greco
Greco (GREK-o) is a highly regarded white grape varietal grown across Campania. It truly shines in the village of Tufo, located in the Irpinia region. This is where Greco di Tufo earned its prestigious DOCG status in 2003.
Tufo is not only a village in Campania but also the name of the unique rock beneath it. Limestone tufa, formed from compacted ash after volcanic eruptions, provides the foundation for the village and the vineyards. This volcanic soil is key to the distinctive flavor profile of this wine.
Appellation Requirements
Because of its DOCG status, Greco di Tufo must be made with at least 85% Greco grapes. The remaining 15% can include Coda di Volpe Bianco, another local varietal.
Greco di Tufo Profile
Grown on volcanic hillsides, Greco di Tufo thrives in a cooler climate that lets the grapes absorb the sun’s warmth without overheating. This unique environment creates a wine with vibrant acidity and complexity.
Refreshing and crisp, these wines are aromatic and full of character. Expect notes of white flowers, green apple, dried apricot, honey, and a distinctive minerality.
For the best experience, enjoy this wine within three years of bottling.
Pair it With...
As they say, what grows together goes together—and nowhere is this truer than in Italy. Greco di Tufo shines alongside a simple Caprese salad (made with the local buffalo mozzarella), grilled fish with a squeeze of lemon, or seafood pasta. Enjoy!
For more great white wine suggestions, check out my blog on alternatives to Chardonnay.
