Vesuvio DOC: Lacrima Christi
Best wine tasting Vesuvius
Lacryma Christi is the most representative among the wines produced at the Vesuvius Vulcan
foot hills. It is a wine surely not prised for the quantity but the quality, along with the legend
around its origin, has lead Lacryma Christi to be highly appreciated in Italy and in the world.
The legend says that the name “Lacryma Christi”, from the latin “Christ’s tears”, comes from
the tears poured by Jesus when he noted that the mystic volcanic scenario was a piece of
paradise stolen by the dismissed angel Lucifer.
Viticulture on the Vesuvio area has a really long history as is proved by the portrayals related
to Bacco that were found after the eruption dated 79 AD. In the past like nowadays the
volcanic eruptions have favoured an optimal fertility to the soil which gives great conditions
for growing vines. The porous volcanic soil allows retaining the water and supports the
growth of the vines by providing important nutrients like calcium, potassium, magnesium
etc…
The viticulture in proximity of Vesuvio , apart from the soil, benefits also from ideal
temperatures within the warmth of the Mediterranean climate and the cooling effect of the
sea. Despite the great terroir has allowed a significant production of different styles since a
long time, the “Vesuvio” wines were regulated only from the late XX century.
The appellation Vesuvio DOC was created in 1983, including the sub-designation Lacryma
Christi which is assigned only to wines that met certain criteria. Lacryma Christi can be
produced in 15 communes around the Vesuvio Vulcan where is released mainly in white,
rose’ and red style.
Lacryma Christi Bianco has to have as a aminimum 80% of Coda di Volpe and a maximum
20% between Falanghina and Greco.
Lacryma Christi Rosso has to include at least 80% of Piedirosso and a maximum of 20% of
Aglianico or other local red varieties. (The same blend can be used to release the rose’ style).
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However, nowadays, producers tend to utilize only Coda di Volpe for Bianco and Piedirosso
for Rosso as single varieties to give more personality to the wine.
The minimum ABV for Lacryma Christi is 12% except “Superiore” or “Riserva” where is
required a minimum of 13% of alcohol. In regards of winemaking Lacryma Christi is made
only by stainless steel tank to preserve the natural minerality given by the soil, within the
only exception of “Riserva Rosso” which undergoes through 2 years of oak ageing.
Lacryma Christi is an old wine with a long life in front because it is an authentic expression
of its terroir that performs well in all its style hence good to enjoy in any season or menu.
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