Table of Contents
What Is Cilento DOC?
Cilento DOC is a distinctive wine appellation in southern Campania, Italy—covering red, white, rosé, and varietal Aglianico and Fiano wines. This coastal-hill region within Salerno features Mediterranean climate and complex soils, offering elegant yet approachable Campania wine experiences with aging potential, minerality, and expressive local character. Wine-SearcherItalian Wine Central
History and Origins
- DOC established in 1989, reviving ancient viticultural traditions—from Oenotrians to Greeks and Romans. Italian Wine CentralWikipediaWine-Searcher
- Today, the appellation spans 59 communes across coastal to mountainous terrain. Wine-Searcher+1
Where It’s Made: Geography & Terroir
- Situated between Agropoli and Sapri, extending into the Alburni Mountains—part of a UNESCO-recognized national park. Wine-SearcherVinerra
- Soils: limestone, clay, volcanic flysch; climate: maritime Mediterranean with dramatic elevation shifts. VinerraWine-Searcher
The Grape (or Blend)
- Rosso (Red): 60–75% Aglianico, 15–20% Piedirosso/Primitivo, up to 25% other local reds. WikipediaItalian Wine Central
- Rosato (Rosé): 70–80% Sangiovese, with Aglianico and Piedirosso/Primitivo in balance. Wikipedia
- Bianco (White): 60–65% Fiano, 20–30% Trebbiano, 10–15% Greco or Malvasia. Wikipedia
Varietal Aglianico/Fiano: labels allowed if ≥85% of the grape and aging rules observed. Italian Wine Centralwineguide.wein.plus
Winemaking & DOC Regulations
- Max yield: 12 t/ha. Minimum alcohol: 11–12% depending on style. WikipediaItalian Wine Central
Aglianico DOC: 1-year aging minimum. Riserva: 3 years, including 2 in wood. Italian Wine Centralwineguide.wein.plus
Key Facts at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
| Region | Coastal & hill communes in Salerno, Campania |
| Est. DOC | 1989 |
| Wine Styles | Rosso, Rosato, Bianco, Aglianico/Fiano |
| Main Grapes | Aglianico, Fiano, Sangiovese, Piedirosso |
| Soil & Climate | Flysch, clay, limestone; maritime to mountain |
| Aging Rules | 1–3 years depending on style |
| Production | ~82 ha, ~2,000 hl annually Italian Wine Central |
Tasting Notes
- Rosso Aglianico: garnet, dense dark fruit, tobacco, earthy, age-worthy. WikipediaWikipedia
- Rosato: salmon pink, floral, red berry, elegant, easy-drinking.
- Bianco Fiano: straw-toned, hazelnut, citrus, mineral-driven—aromatic and textured. winereviewonline.comItalian Wine Central
Tasting Notes
- Rosso Aglianico: garnet, dense dark fruit, tobacco, earthy, age-worthy. WikipediaWikipedia
- Rosato: salmon pink, floral, red berry, elegant, easy-drinking.
- Bianco Fiano: straw-toned, hazelnut, citrus, mineral-driven—aromatic and textured. winereviewonline.comItalian Wine Central
Serving & Pairing
- Serve reds 16–18 °C; roses/whites 12–14 °C.
- Pairings:
- Reds: wild boar, grilled lamb, rich tomato stews.
- Whites: seafood, buffalo mozzarella, light pasta.
- Rosato: antipasti, salads, soft cheeses.
- Reds: wild boar, grilled lamb, rich tomato stews.
Where to Buy & Pricing
- Specialty retailers and online wine shops such as Vinissimus offer bottles ranging from £10–£25. Vinissimus+1
- Notable names: Casebianche (Fiano, Aglianico), Luigi Maffini (Fiano Kràtos), Marino Aglianico Riserva (scored 91 points). VinissimusFalstaff
Vintage & Investment Guide
- Emerging region—focus on current vintages for freshness, but Aglianico Riserva shows cellaring potential (3–5+ years).
- Encourage exploration, not speculation: great value for rich flavor and heritage.
FAQ on Cilento DOC
- Is it only red wines? No—award-worthy reds, whites, rosés, and varietal bottles are all crafted here.
- Why choose Aglianico style from Cilento? Bold yet balanced, it reflects coastal freshness and firm structure. Decanter
- Travel opportunities? Vineyards and tastings in Agropoli, Rocca Cilento, and the national park offer authentic experiences. Decanter
Fun Facts & Cultural Notes
- Aglianico, the “Barolo of the South,” finds a spirited voice here amid coastal scent and mountain soil. Wikipedia
- Set within a UNESCO National Park, Cilento blends nature, history, and wine. Wine-Searcher
- Producer San Salvatore 1988 exemplifies modern sustainability with solar-powered wineries and buffalo-centric agritourism.
Have fun to learn more about Italian Wines and Spirits! Explore also the non-alcoholic beverages
Send us an email if you want to suggest edits, or if you are looking for more info, at
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If you are in the mood for a good book, you can try:
– The Modern History of Italian Wine by Walter Filipputti
– Hidden Gems of Italy: An Insider’s Secret Formula To Find Top-Class Italian Wines At Value Prices And Taste La Dolce Vita by Tony Margiotta
Additionally, you can discover the other wines from campania.
