What You Need to Know When Traveling to Sannio, Italy · Tips from a Local
South of Italy is one of the most beautiful places. In this region, Campania breathes. Known for its ancient ruins and dramatic coastlines. The regional capital is Naples where you can find Vesuvius and the wonderful Amalfi Coast. Nestled and rested between the cliffs and the sea.
Photo courtesy of @vesuviocoast
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The Italian language is beautiful and meaningful in many ways. Most of the names of our cities, towns, and regions have meaning. Like Campania, which translates to the inner part — among the sweet hills, green mountains, and fresh rivers.
But for now, let’s talk about the magic land of Sannio in Campania. Its glorious grapes that produce some of the best wines in this region.
Sannio means gorgeous wines.
- White wines → root grape are Falanghina and Coda di Volpe.
- Pink wines → root grape is Aglianico.
- Red wines → root grape is Aglianico.
Using these grapes and following important rules → the result is Aglianico del Taburno DOCG. One of the best red wines of Italy. By the way, Taburno is the most important mountain of Sannio.
Campania Wine Map. Guide To The Wines Of Campania With DOCs And DOCGs. Photo courtesy of VinePair
To best enjoy Sannio in all its glory, then once again, you must turn yourself into a temporary citizen. When in comes to the town → My tip is Sant’Agata dei Goti. An ancient town whose historical center is a little gem.
Where to stay?
I suggest to rest your head and relax in the ancient Palace build in the XVII century. It does exist, believe me! It’s name is Palazzo Rainone and it’s located in the heart of the small historic center of Sant’Agata. Known as a chic boutique with only six rooms. Their restaurant is an important asset of Palazzo Rainone. With that said…
Where to eat?
The true seasonal products of Sant’Agata and its surrounding area have become the main ingredients of gorgeous and delightful meals. And wines? Oh, my God! Palazzo Rainone is owned by the Mustilli family. Listen, if Falanghina is a choice — go for it!! Thanks to the Mustilli family who were the first ones to believe in the renaissance of this grape.
I am looking at you, now. You are sitting at the table and you are ready to begin and enjoy a gorgeous dinner. So, which wine will you choose?
You are lucky because your choice is among Mustilli wines. So, let’s begin with their Falanghina Vigna Segreta and, on the main course, let’s commute into Cesco di Nece (magnum bottle) by grape Aglianico.
Dine at DIONISIO, which is in the center of Benevento. It’s located in an appealing ancient location. Charming and elegant from their decor to the historic ceilings, the floors, to the walls.
Once you get there — ask the clever and nice patron for his recommendations. Then follow his tips. His aim is to delight you. And, please, don’t be in a hurry!
A close distance in location but far apart from their style and cooking, NUNZIA. Casual rooms, very characteristic with ancient furniture. At Nunzia, you must taste and enjoy the true typical Sannio cooking. Don’t miss “scialatielli” as pasta and lamb as main course. Very good Sannio wines, of course.
An excellent restaurant is at Melizzano, a small hill town not so far from Benevento. Locanda Radici by Angelo D’Amico. Angelo D’Amico is the patron and the chef of this gorgeous restaurant. Below are a few traditional dishes ↓
What to do?
Take a stroll through Benevento, which is in the main town of Sannio. This deserves some time → Arco di Traiano, Chiesa di Santa Sofia, Museo del Sannio and the slow walks along the streets of downtown.
In Sannio it is lovely to attend at guided wine tasting in the winery and have lunch. The right place, in my opinion is in Torrecuso, pretty hill town, at the winery FONTANAVECCHIA owned by Libero Rillo. They are excellent and, by the way, you cannot miss his VIGNA CATARATTE by Aglianico grapes.
For me, ooh my God, the sad day of departure has arrived. We must go away from Sannio. But never, I am sure, will Sannio go away from us.
Till next time doosts. Ciao.
Featured photo courtesy of ITALY Magazine.
