Particella 928 Campania Fiano 2023 – Cantina del Barone

Wine Overview

Particella 928 Campania Fiano 2023 is one of the purest and most compelling expressions of Fiano from Irpinia, a white wine of remarkable precision born in the heart of Cesinali. Produced by Cantina del Barone, this wine represents the estate’s cru and embodies an artisanal and identity-driven philosophy. The 2023 vintage stands out for its vibrant energy, combining freshness and depth in perfect balance. The palate is dynamic, elegant, and incredibly persistent, making this Fiano a benchmark for Southern Italy. Its aromatic profile is complex and distinctive, with mineral traits and subtle smoky nuances. It is a wine that impresses for both balance and drinkability. A bottle designed to evolve over time. Contains sulfites.

Wine History

Particella 928 is the estate’s cru vineyard, replanted in 2001 with a density of about 2,800 vines per hectare. This parcel represents the core of the winery’s production, where Fiano reaches its highest expression. Since 2009, the grapes from this vineyard have been vinified separately to create this iconic label. The decision stems from the desire to highlight a unique terroir defined by exposure and soil composition. Over time, the wine has gained increasing recognition among critics and enthusiasts. Each vintage reflects the climatic conditions of the year with precision. The 2023 vintage fits perfectly within this consistent quality path. A project combining tradition and precision. Contains sulfites.

Vineyard Philosophy

The vineyard management of Particella 928 follows strict principles aimed at enhancing the quality and expression of the Fiano grape. Located in Cesinali, in the province of Avellino, the vineyards benefit from ideal conditions for this variety. Soil composition and microclimate contribute to a slow and complete ripening of the grapes. The planting density encourages natural vine competition, improving aromatic concentration. Yields are intentionally kept low to enhance structure and complexity. All vineyard work is manual and meticulous, with careful attention to every stage of the growing cycle. The goal is to obtain healthy grapes that fully express the vintage. Fiano is interpreted in its most authentic and territorial form. An approach focused on identity and precision. Contains sulfites.

Winemaking Approach and Grapes

In the cellar, the production philosophy remains consistent with a minimal intervention, artisanal approach. The 2023 Fiano grapes ferment spontaneously using indigenous yeasts, without technological forcing. A short skin maceration of a few days enhances aromatic complexity and structure. The wine is aged for about 7 months on fine lees, increasing depth and texture. It is then refined for an additional 4 months in bottle before release. This process ensures perfect integration between freshness and body. The result is an elegant yet structured white wine. The grape variety used is 100% Fiano. A winemaking style that enhances authenticity, terroir, and aging potential. Contains sulfites.

Tasting Notes

Color: bright straw yellow with golden reflections.
Nose: white flowers and fresh fruit aromas, with elegant smoky and slightly peaty nuances.
Palate: fresh yet structured, savory and refined, with a long and persistent finish.
The wine stands out for its mineral tension and balance between acidity and body. The sip is fluid yet never simple. It shows precision and aromatic clarity. Evolution in the glass is continuous and engaging. A white wine of character and depth. Suitable for aging. Contains sulfites.

Food Pairings

Particella 928 Campania Fiano 2023 pairs beautifully with seafood cuisine, especially fried dishes where its freshness balances richness. It is perfect with fried calamari and shrimp, enhancing both texture and flavor. Also excellent with shellfish, seafood starters, and fish-based pasta dishes. Its structure allows it to match more complex preparations. Interesting with fresh cheeses and Mediterranean cuisine. Its minerality enhances iodine-driven flavors. A highly versatile wine. Ideal for both casual and refined dining. Contains sulfites.

Technical Sheet

• Producer: Cantina del Barone
• Appellation: Campania Fiano
• Grape Variety: 100% Fiano
• Vintage: 2023
• Type: White Wine
• Production Area: Cesinali (Avellino, Campania)
• Alcohol: 13%
• Aging: 7 months on lees + 4 months in bottle
• Fermentation: spontaneous with indigenous yeasts
• Serving Temperature: 10–12°C

Cantina del Barone – Cesinali, Avellino

History of Cantina del Barone

Cantina del Barone is rooted in a family tradition that spans over a century, deeply connected to the land of Cesinali in the heart of Irpinia. The Sarno family has worked these vineyards for more than one hundred years, initially as sharecroppers under the Barone, who resided in Naples and entrusted the agricultural management to experienced hands. It was only in the 1990s that a turning point occurred, when the family became the official owner of the vineyards, marking the beginning of a new entrepreneurial phase. This transition allowed them to express a more personal and authentic vision of winemaking. Over time, the winery has evolved while maintaining a strong connection to its rural roots. Today, it represents a perfect balance between tradition and modern identity. The story of the estate is one of dedication, sacrifice, and deep respect for the land. A journey that has led to the enhancement of one of Irpinia’s most iconic grape varieties: Fiano.

Vineyard Philosophy

The vineyard philosophy of Cantina del Barone is based on an artisanal and environmentally respectful approach, where every action is carefully calibrated to enhance the natural characteristics of the terroir. The vineyards enjoy a privileged position, with ideal exposure and the influence of the surrounding Terminio and Partenio mountains, which shape the microclimate. The volcanic soils, rich in minerals, give the wines a distinctive identity and complexity. Vineyard management focuses on sustainability, with low yields and meticulous grape selection. There are no compromises in production, with quality always taking priority over quantity. All work is done manually, guided by deep knowledge of the land. The goal is to produce healthy, expressive grapes capable of reflecting each vintage. In this context, Fiano becomes the absolute protagonist, expressed in its purest form.

Winery Approach

In the cellar, the same philosophy of precision and authenticity continues, with a minimal intervention approach aimed at preserving the integrity of the fruit. Luigi Sarno, who currently runs the winery, has developed a distinctive and recognizable style, earning him the nickname of a true “Fianologist”, a specialist of the Fiano grape. In 2018, he was awarded the prestigious Giulio Gambelli prize, confirming his status among Italy’s top winemakers. Winemaking is essential and free from unnecessary technological interference, allowing the wine to express itself naturally. Fermentations are carefully managed in terms of timing and temperature, while aging processes are designed to enhance structure and longevity. Every decision is focused on highlighting varietal purity and territorial identity. Production is limited to just two labels, both dedicated to Fiano, reflecting a clear and coherent vision. The result is authentic, deep, and elegant wines.

Identity and Terroir

Cantina del Barone is now considered one of the most compelling wineries in Irpinia, thanks to its limited yet high-quality production. The connection to the land is profound and is reflected in every bottle. Cesinali, with its unique microclimate and volcanic soils, offers ideal conditions for cultivating Fiano, which here reaches remarkable levels of finesse. Luigi Sarno plays a central role in this journey, combining tradition and innovation with sensitivity and expertise. Choosing to produce a single grape variety is not a limitation, but a statement of identity and specialization. This approach allows for a deeper exploration of Fiano’s nuances, resulting in wines that precisely and authentically reflect the territory. The winery is now a benchmark for enthusiasts seeking terroir-driven, age-worthy, and characterful wines.