Lacryma Christi: a Wine with a Rich Legacy

The iconic slopes of Mount Vesuvius, famous for its eruption in 79 AD, have long been home to vineyards producing a wine with a rich history and distinctive character. Lacryma Christi, meaning "Tears of Christ," is a wine that carries with it not just the volcanic influence of the region, but also centuries of tradition, myth, and legend.

While the name might sound poetic, Lacryma Christi is far more than just a romantic title; it’s a wine with deep historical roots, and it’s still a key part of Campania’s viticultural landscape today. Let's dive into what makes this wine so special.

The Legend Behind the Name

The name Lacryma Christi is derived from a legend that dates back to the early Christian era. According to myth, when Christ was crucified, his tears fell upon the slopes of Mount Vesuvius, and from those tears grew the first vines. These vines were said to produce a wine so divine that it would be forever known as "Lacryma Christi"—the tears of Christ.

This story has captured the imagination of wine lovers and historians alike, giving Lacryma Christi a unique place in both the winemaking tradition and the spiritual history of the region.

The Terroir of Vesuvius: A Volcanic Influence

The vineyards of Lacryma Christi are planted in the fertile, mineral-rich soils that surround Mount Vesuvius. These volcanic soils, rich in ash and minerals, give the wine its unique character. The vines draw nutrients from the volcanic rocks, and the wines that result are imbued with a distinct mineral quality, often described as "smoky" or "saline," reflecting the volcanic terroir.

Lacryma Christi comes in both red and white varieties, and each offers a taste of the soil and climate of the region. The warm Mediterranean climate combined with the cooler mountain air creates ideal growing conditions for the native grapes used in Lacryma Christi production.

Grapes and Styles: Red and White

Lacryma Christi is made from two primary grapes: Piedirosso and Coda di Volpe, both of which are native to Campania and perfectly adapted to the volcanic terroir.

Red Lacryma Christi:
The red version of Lacryma Christi is primarily made from the Piedirosso grape, known for its bright fruit flavors and smooth tannins. It offers aromas of red berries, plums, and hints of herbs. With its light to medium body, the wine is vibrant and lively, offering smooth tannins and a refreshing acidity. The wine’s smoky finish, attributed to the volcanic soil, makes it particularly unique. This wine pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, pizza, and pasta dishes.

White Lacryma Christi:
Made from Coda di Volpe and sometimes Falanghina, the white version of Lacryma Christi is a refreshing and aromatic wine. It has a pale straw color and offers notes of citrus fruits, green apple, and floral aromas. On the palate, it is crisp, with bright acidity and a mineral edge. The white version is best enjoyed fresh and pairs beautifully with seafood, fresh cheeses, and light pasta dishes.

Notable Producers of Lacryma Christi

There are several wineries in the Vesuvius region producing exceptional Lacryma Christi wines, each bringing its own approach to the winemaking process. Some notable producers include:

Cantine del Vesuvio: A family-owned winery known for producing high-quality Lacryma Christi wines that reflect the character of the region's volcanic soils.
Mastroberardino: One of Campania's most respected producers, Mastroberardino crafts wines that showcase the best of the region's native varietals, including their rendition of Lacryma Christi.
Terredora di Paolo: Another well-known Campanian producer, Terredora's Lacryma Christi is a great example of the finesse and minerality the wine can achieve.

Pairing Lacryma Christi with Food

The versatility of Lacryma Christi makes it an excellent wine for pairing with a wide range of dishes. Here are some classic pairings:

Red Lacryma Christi: Best served with Neapolitan pizza, grilled meats, pasta with rich sauces, and hard cheeses like Pecorino.
White Lacryma Christi: Pairs beautifully with seafood dishes such as grilled fish, shrimp, and shellfish, as well as light pasta dishes, fresh salads, and soft cheeses.

In conclusion, Lacryma Christi is not just a wine: it’s a reflection of its volcanic homeland, a product of centuries-old traditions, and a symbol of the spiritual connection between the land and its people. Whether you’re enjoying a red or a white, every bottle of Lacryma Christi carries with it the essence of Mount Vesuvius and the legends that have been passed down through generations. For anyone seeking a taste of Campania’s volcanic terroir and rich history, Lacryma Christi offers an unforgettable experience.

Campania’s Bold Red Wines: Taurasi vs. Piedirosso

While Campania is often celebrated for its exceptional white wines, the region also boasts some of Italy’s most intriguing reds. Among them, Aglianico and Piedirosso stand out for their depth, character, and connection to the land. One is a powerful, age-worthy giant, while the other is a vibrant, food-friendly gem. Let’s explore what makes these two grape varieties distinct and how they reflect Campania’s diverse terroir.

Aglianico: The King of Southern Italian Reds

Often referred to as the Barolo of the South, Aglianico is Campania’s most prestigious red grape, primarily used in Taurasi DOCG. This variety is known for its structure, tannins, and remarkable aging potential.

Tasting Notes:

Deep ruby color with aromas of dark cherry, blackberry, leather, and spice
High tannins and acidity, with bold structure and long aging potential
Pairs well with braised meats, aged cheeses, and rich pasta dishes

Terroir Influence:

Thrives in the hilly, volcanic soils of Avellino and Benevento
Cooler temperatures help develop complexity and depth
Often aged for a minimum of three years (with some variants having longer aging potential)

Notable Wines:

Taurasi DOCG – Often considered the pinnacle of Aglianico, it’s a powerful wine with a long aging potential.
Radici Taurasi by Mastroberardino – A classic example of Aglianico with deep fruit flavors and robust tannins.
Terra di Lavoro by Galardi – A blend of Aglianico and Piedirosso, it offers complexity and structure with a slightly more modern approach.

Piedirosso: The Everyday Campanian Red

In contrast to Aglianico’s intensity, Piedirosso is an elegant, fruit-forward red. It’s a native grape often used in blends but also shines on its own, offering freshness, vibrancy, and a softer tannic structure.

Tasting Notes:

Bright ruby color with notes of red berries, violets, and Mediterranean herbs
Medium body with soft tannins and lively acidity
Perfect with Neapolitan pizza, tomato-based pasta, and grilled vegetables

Terroir Influence:

Thrives in volcanic and coastal soils, particularly near Naples and on the islands
Warm climate enhances its juicy, fruit-driven profile
Typically enjoyed young, though some expressions can age well

Notable Wines:

Campi Flegrei Piedirosso – A fresh and vibrant example from the volcanic soils near Naples.
Piedirosso IGT by Villa Minini – An easy-drinking, fruit-forward Piedirosso with notes of cherries and herbs.
Lacryma Christi del Vesuvio – A well-known wine primarily made from Piedirosso, offering a fresh and mineral-driven profile with a touch of volcanic character.
Terra di Lavoro by Galardi – This blend of Aglianico and Piedirosso creates a rich, complex wine that combines the structure of Aglianico with the freshness of Piedirosso.

Aglianico vs. Piedirosso: Key Differences

For those who enjoy bold, age-worthy wines like Aglianico or the fresh, vibrant character of Piedirosso, Campania’s reds offer something for every palate. The contrast between these two grapes showcases the region's diverse terroir—from the structured, long-lived Aglianico of Avellino to the bright, fruit-driven Piedirosso from Naples and the islands. Next time you pour a glass, choose between the power of Aglianico and the refreshing nature of Piedirosso—either way, you’ll be savoring a taste of Campania’s rich winemaking heritage.

 

From Volcano to Vine: The Unique Terroir and Wines of Campania

Nestled in southern Italy, Campania is a region where history, tradition, and nature come together to create some of Italy’s most distinctive wines. From the volcanic slopes of Mount Vesuvius to the rolling hills inland, Campania’s terroir plays a key role in shaping the character of its wines.

The Terroir: A Land Shaped by Fire and Sea

Campania’s landscape is defined by volcanic soils, rich in minerals, which impart a unique complexity to its wines. The influence of the Mediterranean climate, with warm days and cool breezes from the Tyrrhenian Sea, helps grapes retain their acidity, creating wines with freshness and depth.

Some of the most renowned wine areas include:

Irpinia – Home to some of the region’s most prestigious DOCG wines.
Vesuvius – Producing wines from grapes grown on the fertile volcanic slopes.
The Amalfi Coast – Steep vineyards overlooking the sea, yielding elegant and aromatic wines.

Campania’s Star Wines

🍇 Greco di Tufo (White)
A crisp and mineral-rich white wine made from the Greco grape, grown in the volcanic soils of Tufo. This wine boasts citrus, almond, and floral notes, with a refreshing acidity that makes it a perfect match for seafood and fresh cheeses.

🍇 Fiano di Avellino (White)
Another standout white, Fiano offers richer, more honeyed flavors with hints of hazelnut, tropical fruit, and smoke. It’s a wine that can age beautifully, developing more depth over time.

🍇 Taurasi (Red)
Often called the "Barolo of the South," Taurasi is a powerful red made from Aglianico grapes. With deep flavors of dark berries, leather, tobacco, and spice, this wine is known for its firm tannins and excellent aging potential.

🍇 Lacryma Christi del Vesuvio (White & Red)
A legendary wine grown on the slopes of Mount Vesuvius, Lacryma Christi (“Tears of Christ”) comes in both white and red styles. The white is floral and crisp, while the red is fruity and slightly smoky, reflecting its volcanic origins.

A Taste of Campania

Campania’s wines are a true reflection of the land—bold, expressive, and steeped in history. Whether you’re sipping a crisp Greco di Tufo by the sea or enjoying a glass of Taurasi with a hearty meal, each wine tells a story of its origins.

Looking to explore the wines of Campania? Join us for Wine Wednesday on February 19th, where we’ll be tasting Greco di Tufo and Taurasi, paired with delicious appetizers!

The Diverse Terroirs of Campania: Coastal vs. Mountain Whites

Campania, a region known for its rich volcanic soils and deep winemaking traditions, offers some of Italy’s most compelling white wines. The contrast between the mountainous inland vineyards and the coastal terraces along the Amalfi Coast creates a striking diversity in flavor profiles and styles. In this exploration, we’ll dive into two of the region’s DOCG whites—Greco di Tufo and Fiano di Avellino—and compare them with the unique wines of the Amalfi Coast, highlighting the influence of altitude and proximity to the sea.

• Mountain Wines: Greco di Tufo & Fiano di Avellino

The inland areas of Campania, particularly around Avellino, are home to some of the region’s most prestigious white wines. The combination of elevation, volcanic soil, and cooler temperatures contributes to wines with structure, minerality, and complexity.

🍇Greco di Tufo: The Mineral-Driven Powerhouse

Greco di Tufo thrives in the volcanic and limestone-rich soils of Tufo, resulting in high-acid, mineral-laden wines with remarkable aging potential.

Tasting Notes: Aromas of citrus, green apple, almond, and white flowers. Crisp acidity with a steely, mineral-driven finish. Pairs well with seafood, shellfish, and fresh cheeses

🍇Fiano di Avellino: The Rich and Aromatic White

Fiano, on the other hand, is fuller-bodied and more aromatic. Its rounder texture and lower acidity make it a wine that can develop honeyed, nutty characteristics with age.

Tasting Notes: Aromas of pear, honey, hazelnut, and tropical fruit. Richer texture with a long, lingering finish. Ideal with roast chicken, truffle dishes, and aged cheeses

• Coastal Wines: The Unique Expression of the Amalfi Coast

On the opposite end of the spectrum, the wines of the Amalfi Coast are influenced by their dramatic seaside terroir. These vineyards are often planted on steep limestone cliffs, where the combination of salty sea breezes and ample sunshine creates wines that are bright, fresh, and aromatic.

The Amalfi Coast’s Distinct Terroir: Terraced vineyards overlooking the Mediterranean. Strong maritime influence, resulting in fresher, lighter wines. Indigenous grape varieties rarely found elsewhere.

Key Wines of the Amalfi Coast

🍷 Furore Bianco – A vibrant white made from Falanghina and Biancolella, offering floral and citrus notes with bright acidity.

🍷 Costa d’Amalfi DOC Wines – Featuring a range of white wines made from indigenous varietals, all expressing the coast’s saline minerality and Mediterranean freshness.

• Coastal vs. Mountain Whites: Key Differences

In conclusion, whether you prefer the zippy, mineral intensity of Greco di Tufo, the round, aromatic elegance of Fiano di Avellino, or the rare and coastal expressions of the Amalfi Coast, Campania’s white wines showcase an incredible spectrum of flavors and styles. Next time you explore Italian whites, consider the influence of mountain vs. coastal terroir—two worlds within one stunning region.