If you want to talk about being under the radar in Campania, then this is an address that belongs in that discussion. The wines are wild, sometimes a bit rustic, completely vintage transparent, and totally worth seeking out.
—Eric Guido, Vinous

Italy is home to a treasure trove of white wines which are virtually unknown to anyone living outside the specific regions in which they’re grown.

Somewhat paradoxically, one of the best sources for fine, fascinating white wines is southern Italy; in spite of the unceasing sun and the fierce heat, many winemakers are producing wines of great minerality and elegance. One such estate is I Pentri, named after the ancient tribe that once occupied this area of Campania, a few hours’ drive northeast from Naples.

Called ‘Flora’, I Pentri’s Falanghina has been a staple on our shelf for as long as we can remember. If you ask us, it’s a benchmark example of the variety. Husband and wife team Dionisio Meola (yes, really, he’s the Italian Dionysus) and Lia Falato worked for many years in the region before purchasing their own vines. They farm organically and biodynamically in pursuit of greater harmony with nature.

‘Flora’ is rich, and (unsurprisingly) rife with floral aromas (wildflower honey, honeysuckle) and flavors of ripe pineapple, though the mineral character shines brighter than flavors of fruit. Though lush and concentrated, there's a core of citrusy acidity that imparts levity and freshness.

With nearly 5,000 miles of coastline, Italian cuisine features a bevy of seafood — a natural pairing for a textured, saline wine like Flora. Grilled fish, a feast of crustaceans, steamed clams…these would all be excellent foils for a Falanghina like I Pentri’s. But so would grilled vegetables, salty cheese, or garlicky pasta.

I Pentri, Falanghina Flora, 2021 $27.99