Vesuvius Vineyards and Arugula

Mount Vesuvius (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vesuvius) is located on the coast of the Bay of Naples, and is best known for an eruption that destroyed Pompeii and Herculaneum in 79 A.D. On a clear day, it provides spectacular views of the Bay of Naples, Napoli and the Campania countryside. During a recent visit, we decided to hike to the top. Having missed the last bus that goes to the Vesuvius national park, we hired a local driver for a ride. Half way up the mountain the driver skidded to a stop, and we followed him out of the car into wild vegetation from which he plucked several leaves of wild arugula. As we gleefully nibbled the arugula, I noticed vineyards on the hillside slopes that grow the wonderful Lacryma Christi del Vesuvio (meaning “tears of Christ”). Although perhaps best known for its Bianco, it was the rich flavor of its Rosso that caught my attention.

Since my discovery six years ago, I have only seen it once in the USA – and immediately purchased the one case held by the retailer. Now this fantastic wine is imported to the USA by Mastroberardino (http://www.mastroberardino.com/Eng/index.asp), and can be found in select restaurants (thank you to the excellent Pasta Moon restaurant and their award winning wine list! www.pastamoon.com) and wine shops including BevMo. Established in 1750, Mastrobererdino imports a variety of southern Italian wines, and is perhaps best known for its Greco di Tufa and Aglianico varietals. Their Lacryma Christi del Vesuvio Rosso is about $15, and gets a four star ranking on the Drink Plonk Value Index.

So, you can call me an “arugula-eating elitist” if you choose… just make sure mine is served with Lacryma Christi del Vesuvio Rosso.

Best, Joe Plonk

www.drinkplonk.com