Torrioni
Greco di Tufo: a white wine with unique organoleptic characteristics
Greco di Tufo is a white wine with intense and persistent flavors, a fruity aroma, and a note of aromatic herbs. This wine has a remarkable structure, yet it is pleasantly fresh, thanks to its balanced acidity.
These organoleptic characteristics are related to the geographical area where the grapes are grown and to the particular composition of the soil. In fact, the clay present in the soil of the municipalities of Tufo, Altavilla Irpina, Chianche, Montefusco, Prata di Principato Ultra, Petruro Irpino, Santa Paolina, and Torrioni, together with the richness of magnesium and potassium, give the wine its distinctive properties.
Production region of Greco di Tufo
This particular white wine is produced in a specific geographical area that extends north of Avellino, partly within the regional park of Partenio. The altitude varies from 300 to 650 meters above sea level, in the valley of the Sabato River, a left tributary of the Calore Irpino.
In this region, the soils are predominantly clayey, with a presence of limestone and a scarce amount of humus. The high presence of magnesium and potassium gives the wines good structure and perfect balance. Furthermore, the production region is characterized by a mild summer climate and a cold winter climate, with frequent snowfall.
Denominations of Greco di Tufo
There are two denominations of Greco di Tufo: the white and the sparkling. Both denominations are characterized by the same composition of the soil and the same climatic conditions, but differ in the production process.
Greco di Tufo white is produced with Greco grapes grown in the limited production area of the province of Avellino. After being harvested, the grapes are immediately pressed and the obtained must is fermented in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature.
Greco di Tufo sparkling, on the other hand, is obtained through a fermentation process in which the wine is fermented a second time in the bottle. In this case, the Greco grapes are harvested a little earlier than for the production of white, so that they have a higher natural acidity that is suitable for producing a sparkling wine.
Production process
In addition to grape harvesting, the production of Greco di Tufo involves a careful and precise winemaking process. After pressing the grapes, the must is fermented in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature. Once fermentation is finished, the wine is left to age in wooden barrels for at least 24 months.
In recent years, the production of Greco di Tufo has evolved, thanks to the introduction of new less invasive winemaking techniques that allow for better preservation of the characteristics of the grape and the soil.
Food pairing
Greco di Tufo white pairs perfectly with fish dishes, appetizers, vegetable-based first courses, and fresh cheeses. Greco di Tufo sparkling is perfect for accompanying seafood dishes or for sipping as an aperitif.
Conclusion
Greco di Tufo is one of the most unique and recognized white wines in Italy, thanks to its unique organoleptic characteristics and the geographical area where it is grown. The careful and precise production process makes it possible to obtain a wine of the highest quality, which is also suitable for aging. Thanks to its freshness and intense flavor, Greco di Tufo can be perfectly paired with numerous dishes, making every meal a true palate experience.
