2023 Agnanum Falanghina 'Sabbia Vulcanica'

100% organic (uncertified) Falanghina from vines up to 60 years old on volcanic ash, sand and basalt soils (“Sabbis Vulcanica” translates to “volcanic sand”). Fermented with native yeasts in stainless steel with malaolactic fermentation occuring naturally. 

This is a bright, fresh Falanghina that shows more towards the mineral-driven side, showing a savory, salty, distinctly volcanic feel. Lemon, orange zest, pear and melon fruit alongside volcanic rock and herbal undertones. Light to medium bodied, with balanced acidity and a silky mouthfeel.

On the very Western edge of Naples lies the Campi Flegrei, a volcanic area marked by its large craters and proximity to the Tyrrhenian Sea. Wine production has existed here since Roman times, with the majority of vines planted in steep terraces. Sadly, most growers have abandoned these historic sites because mechanization is near impossible and it’s too much work. But not Raffaelle Moccia. 

Located within the crater of Agnano, Rafaelle tends 25 acres of very old, terraced vines that sit high atop an impressive hill with a beautiful view. The indigenous Falanghina is grown for white and Piedirosso for red. The vines are as gnarly as they come, and range from 60 to 200 years old. Because of the unique, layered composition of the soils (volcanic ash and sand, sandy basalt and basalt subsoil), the entirety of the estate is planted in franc de pied. Though it feels much higher, the vines are 150 to 200m elevation. Rafaelle lets grass grow wild to absorb water, which would otherwise overfeed the vines. The grass also helps create a layer of moisture that helps cool down the vines, and old trick that has been passed along for generations. No chemicals are used in the vineyards, and nearly everything is done by hand. In the cellar, slow native yeast fermentations take place in stainless steel, and in some cases the wine is racked to barrel for aging. Minimal sulfur is added during winemaking, and none at bottling. 

Along with his vines, Rafaelle operates a successful rabbit farm- for years this was his primary source of income!