Vigne Irpine, Coda di Volpe 2022

Vigne Irpine is a boutique winery in Campania, dedicated to showcasing the region’s native grape varieties with a focus on authenticity and terroir-driven winemaking. Coda di Volpe, an ancient varietal with a history dating back to Roman times, thrives in the volcanic soils of Campania, where it develops a unique balance of freshness, minerality, and depth. The 2022 vintage benefited from a warm but well-balanced growing season, with cooling breezes from the Tyrrhenian Sea preserving the grape’s natural acidity and aromatics.

The vineyards are located in the hills of Irpinia, one of Campania’s most renowned wine regions, where the combination of high-altitude sites and mineral-rich volcanic soils enhances the structure and complexity of the wine. Fermentation in stainless steel ensures the purity of fruit, while a brief period on fine lees adds texture and depth, resulting in a vibrant yet elegant white wine.

Appearance: Bright straw yellow with golden reflections, highlighting its ripeness and vibrancy. The wine is luminous and clear, with a silky texture that hints at its balanced body. When swirled, it moves gracefully in the glass, leaving delicate traces that suggest a refined structure.

Aroma: Expressive and fresh, with aromas of ripe pear, yellow apple, and citrus blossom. Delicate hints of white peach and apricot add depth, while floral notes of jasmine and acacia provide an elegant lift. Subtle undertones of flinty minerality and Mediterranean herbs bring complexity to the bouquet.

Taste: Crisp and well-structured, featuring bright citrus and orchard fruit flavours. Lemon zest, green apple, and white peach lead into a refreshing acidity that keeps the wine lively and precise. A slight salinity on the mid-palate, reflective of its volcanic origins, adds a mineral-driven depth, while a gentle creaminess from lees ageing rounds out the texture.

Finish: Long, clean, and slightly saline. The citrus and stone fruit notes fade gradually, leaving behind a delicate almond and wet stone character. The wine’s vibrant acidity ensures a refreshing and lingering finish, making it a versatile and food-friendly choice.

Food Pairing: Grilled sea bass with lemon and fresh herbs, where the wine’s crisp acidity and minerality enhance the delicate flavours of the fish. Buffalo mozzarella with heirloom tomatoes and basil, complementing the wine’s bright fruit and floral notes while balancing its freshness.