The Casavecchia is an indigenous Campanian grape variety whose origins are shrouded in mystery, but which has a deep and significant presence in the northern territories of the province of Caserta, particularly in the municipalities of Pontelatone, Formicola, Liberi, and Castel Campagnano. Legend has it that it was discovered at the beginning of the 20th century in a ruin known as "'a casa vecchia" (the old house), from which it takes its name, miraculously surviving the downy mildew and phylloxera epidemics that devastated European vineyards in the 19th century.
Origins and History of the Grape Variety
Despite numerous studies on vine genetics, Casavecchia remains a unique grape variety, with no known links to other varieties. According to some historians, the production area of Casavecchia would coincide with the ancient Roman locality of Trebula balliniensis, which suggests that this grape variety might be the origin of the "Trebulanum" wine, celebrated by Pliny the Elder.
Ampelographic Characteristics
Casavecchia is distinguished by its compact and cylindrical bunches and its blue-black berries, covered with a thick and pruinose skin. The leaves are large, orbicular, and trilobed, unique in their kind. These ampelographic characteristics contribute to the production of a robust wine, with a high anthocyanin content that gives it an intense ruby red color.
A Wine of Great Structure and Longevity
The wine produced from Casavecchia grapes is known for its powerful structure and aging potential. It is a wine that fully develops its potential only after aging in oak for at least 15-18 months, followed by several years of bottle aging. On the nose, fruity and spicy notes are perceived, while on the palate it is balanced, with a solid tannic structure and an aromatic complexity that improves with time.
Connection to the Territory
Casavecchia is a grape variety deeply linked to its territory of origin, and its cultivation is almost exclusively limited to the hills of Caserta. This connection is so strong that the grape variety adapts with difficulty to soils and climates different from those of this area. Its history and its peculiarities make it a unique wine, particularly appreciated by connoisseurs of indigenous Italian wines.
The Valorization of Casavecchia
In recent years, thanks to the efforts of local producers and cooperatives such as Vignai del Casavecchia, this grape variety has seen its reputation and recognition grow nationally and internationally. Casavecchia is today celebrated as one of Campania's oenological treasures, representing the perfect synthesis of tradition, territory, and innovation.
Laboris Catrame and Wine Culture
The goal of Laboris Catrame is to promote and enhance the oenological excellences of the Campanian territory. The Casavecchia perfectly embodies this mission, thanks to its fascinating history, the quality of its wines, and its close connection to the land that gave it birth.
