Silvia Imparato and Montevetrano: A Benchmark of Italian Wine
Written by Davide Gangi | Published in people, wine
When I think of the most authentic and courageous stories in the world of wine, one of the first that comes to mind is that of Silvia Imparato. An extraordinary woman, capable of transforming a personal passion into a symbol of Campanian enology. And I say this not only as the founder of Vinoway, but as a privileged observer who has had the pleasure of knowing her personally for just a few years, and in this short time has come to deeply appreciate her style, consistency, and humanity.
Silvia, a former photojournalist, decided in the 1990s to return to her homeland, San Cipriano Picentino, to pursue a vision. With the support of Riccardo Cotarella, one of Italy’s greatest oenologists, she created a bold and unconventional blend: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Aglianico. Thus, Montevetrano was born—a wine that immediately astonished with its depth, balance, and finesse. Robert Parker called it “the Sassicaia of the South”—a recognition that doesn’t happen by chance.
Her estate spans 26 hectares, 5.5 of which are under vine, located in one of Campania’s most vocated areas, nestled between the sea and the mountains. Here, Silvia cultivates her vines with love, respect, and meticulous attention to quality. There is no room for quantity for its own sake: production hovers around 60,000 bottles per year, each one crafted with the care of a true artisan.
Every bottle of Montevetrano is the result of tailor-made winemaking, beginning in the vineyard and completed in the cellar with precise aging in new French oak barriques. It is a wine capable of aging, of telling time, of stirring emotion.
But Silvia didn’t stop there. With the Core line, she gave voice to native grape varieties: Core Rosso, 100% Aglianico, and Core Bianco, made with Fiano and Greco. Authentic, expressive, vibrant wines. Real wines. Wines that speak of territory and identity.
When, together with the Vinoway Selection jury, we decided to award Silvia Imparato the title of “Best Italian Wine Entrepreneur 2023,” it was a special moment. We did it not only for the extraordinary quality of her wines but for everything she represents: determination, consistency, and the ability to look ahead without ever losing her roots.
Silvia is an example. A benchmark. A pioneer. And I can proudly say that her wines—Montevetrano and Core—are part of the Vinoway Selection, among the finest labels we rigorously and passionately select each year.
Today, Silvia is joined by her daughter Gaia, who carries on this family story with enthusiasm and sensitivity. Watching them work together is proof that this world needs passion, authenticity, and continuity.
Montevetrano is not just a wine. It is a lesson in style and life. It is proof that excellence can rise from the South. And I, along with the entire Vinoway team, am proud to share its story.




