Campi Flegrei: Italy’s Hidden Volcanic Wine Treasure
Campi Flegrei: Italy’s Hidden Volcanic Wine Treasure
Discover one of Italy’s most unique wine regions—where vineyards grow inside ancient volcanoes.
Beyond Vesuvius: Welcome to Campi Flegrei
When most people think of volcanic wine regions in Italy, Mount Vesuvius takes center stage. Its explosive eruption in 79 A.D. buried Pompeii and Herculaneum and left behind the archaeological wonders we know today.
But just beyond Vesuvius lies another remarkable and lesser-known volcanic area: Campi Flegrei. Located just outside of Naples, this region is made up of multiple ancient volcanoes, forming a rich and distinct terroir that can’t be found anywhere else in Italy.
Vines in the Crater: A Vineyard Like No Other
The vineyards of Campi Flegrei are truly something special. In fact, if you look closely at photos of the region, you’ll notice something striking—the vines are growing inside what looks like a crater. That’s because they are! You can actually see the circular ridge of an ancient volcano surrounding the vines.
This dramatic landscape gives birth to equally dramatic wines, grown in deeply volcanic soils that lend minerality, intensity, and unmistakable character to every grape.
A Winery Close to My Heart: Cantine Federiciane
As someone who was born just outside of Pompeii, Campi Flegrei and its wines have always been part of my life. That’s why Cantine Federiciane holds a special place in our portfolio at Above Wines. This is the wine I’ve been drinking since I was a kid—shared around the table during family meals.
Cantinae Federiciane doesn’t just produce great wine—it represents heritage, identity, and a commitment to keeping Campania’s winemaking traditions alive.
The Only Fully Metropolitan Winery in Italy
One thing that sets Cantinae Federiciane apart is its unique location: it’s entirely based in the metropolitan area of Naples. From grape growing to bottling, everything happens within the city limits. This makes it the only fully metropolitan winery in all of Italy.
That identity is proudly reflected on their label—look for the "Metropolitan Cuvée" on their sparkling wines.
Gragnano: Naples’ Sparkling Red Secret
One of my absolute favorite wines from Cantine Federiciane is Gragnano ( made on the Sorrento Peninsula ) —a lightly sparkling red wine that’s vibrant, refreshing, and totally Neapolitan.
Often served chilled and paired with pizza, it’s a local tradition that feels almost like a red sangria without the added sugar or soda. Gragnano is lower in alcohol, full of flavor, and perfect for hot summer days. It’s the kind of wine that brings people together—easy to enjoy, but unforgettable in character.
Campi Flegrei in a Glass
Campi Flegrei is more than just a place—it’s a living, volcanic landscape that continues to shape the flavors and identity of the region. Through the wines of Cantinae Federiciane, we’re proud to bring a taste of this unique terroir to your table.
Every bottle tells a story—from the volcanic soil to the vibrant streets of Naples—and we’re honored to share that story through Above Wines.
