V esuvio's vineyards are found on the slopes of the still-active volcano Mount Vesuvius, east of Naples. For years the area was regarded as incapable of producing any quality wines but, thanks to the influence of the highly regarded winemaker Antonio Mastroberardino, quality is on the up and the wines have taken off in popularity. This was recognized when Vesuvio was awarded its DOC status in 1983.

These wines can be produced in several styles: red, white, rose, sparkling and liquoroso (the latter can be either dry or sweet). White wine must be made from a minimum of 35–80 percent Coda di Volpe (a variety derived from the ancient Roman vines of Campania Felix and reminiscent of a fox’s tail, due to the way the grapes grow in a long bunch) and/or Verdecca grapes.

The remaining 20 percent includes Falanghina or Greco grapes. The liquoroso is made from the same blend. However a complicating factor is that Coda di Volpe may be confused in the vineyard with the local grape variety Caprettone.

Wines which qualify for the DOC, but have an alcohol level 1 to 1.5 percent higher than the basic Vesuvio qualification also carry the name Lacryma Christi (del Vesuvio), meaning "the tears of Christ of Vesuvius". A glance at the Wine-Searcher datbase suggests the vast majority of exported wines from Vesuvio are labeled this way.

There are many myths surrounding the name of this wine. One such legend relates the simple story of when Jesus ascended into heaven, and on casting his eyes over the beautiful Bay of Naples he wept tears of joy, which fell upon Mount Vesuvius causing vines to grow. Another tells of Christ weeping onto the land over the casting out of Lucifer and the fallen angels.

In a variation of this tale, angry that they were forced to leave, the fallen angels took a piece of heaven with them which landed on Mount Vesuvius, leading to tears of sadness from Jesus. An earllier version attributes the tears of joy to the Roman god of wine, Bacchus.

Roses and red wine must include are a minimum of 80 percent Piedirosso (locally known as Per'e Palummo, or Palombina), a variety named for the gnarled red bases of the vines and its similarity to the red feet of a native dove, and/or Sciascinoso (locally known as Olivella).

There must be no less than 50 percent Piedirosso, and the remaining 20 percent Aglianico. Whites and roses are usually produced for immediate consumption, unlike the reds which require a little age.

The reds display a quintessential character of smoky, mineral flavors, derived from the volcanic soil on which the grapes are cultivated. They also take on notes of plums, raspberries and cherries, enveloped in spices such as cinnamon and white pepper.

Some Descriptions of Vesuvio DOC Wines

Wikipedia Lacryma Christi, (also Lachryma Christi of Vesuvius, literally "tears of Christ"), is the name of a celebrated Neapolitan type of wine produced on the slopes of Mount Vesuvius in Campania, Italy. White Lacryma Christi is made mainly from Verdeca and Coda di Volpe grapes, with smaller proportions of Falanghina, Caprettone[1] and Greco di Tufo included. Red Lacryma Christi is made from Piedirosso and Sciascinoso grapes. It is also, as archaeologists have discovered, the nearest equivalent to wine drunk by the Ancient Romans, having analysed microscopic residue left on the taps of the casks.

Winebow Group The name of this wine is rooted in a legend. According to the story, God cried when he found a corner of Heaven stolen by Lucifer and where his tears fell, there grew the grapes that make Lacryma Christi, translated as "tears of Christ." Made from 100% Piedirosso grapes grown in volcanic soil near Mount Vesuvius and fermented in stainless steel, this is a unique red wine that is youthful, but substantial. Intense ruby-red in color, aromas of cherries and red fruit underscore notes of plums, raspberries, and black pepper. Refined tannins and good acidity make this wine rich without being overpowering.

Charming Italy Biblical stories of heaven, hell and Lucifer’s fall are often told to explain the origin of the evocative name Lacryma Christi del Vesuvio, which means Christ’s Tears at Vesuvius. This name is used to describe the red, white and rosé wines made with grapes grown on the slopes of the volcano Mt. Vesuvius just outside of Naples. The red wine is a blend of Piedirosso, Sciascinoso and Aglianico grapes, while the whites are made with Verdeca, Coda di Volpe and Falanghina grapes.

The Wine Station Ruby red in colour. The palate is warm, well-structured and smooth, with fine tannins and a background of fruits and spices. Full, with cherry and plum aromas, supported by spiced notes of pepper and clove. A great wine that best pairs with meat-based sauces, pasta, polenta and sophisticated red meats. A deliciously surprising pairing with grilled swordfish. This wine will provide good drinking over the next 5-8 years.