Andrea and Francesco’s Lacryma Christi del Vesuvio Rosso centers almost exclusively on Piedirosso, a lithe and tightly wound red variety that finds its spiritual home on the slopes of Vesuvius, with a small portion of Aglianico rounding out the blend. Cultivated across 3 vineyards located at 30, 120 and 200 meters respectively, vines are planted to a mix of volcanic sand and smaller lava/basalt rocks. After pressing, maceration is fairly brief - just 10-12 days - with minimal handling and maximum oxygenation of the fruit, an effort to maintain the zip and lift that hallmarks Piedirosso, while softening a potentially brawny frame of tannins. From the outset, the nose sways between tightly wound and high tension red fruit, and something wild, smokey and savage. Pomegranate molasses, fresh red and maraschino cherry, and just-ripe red plums lead the fruit elements, an ever-present flinty, mineral twang hovering behind. The palate speaks of scorched, volcanic earth both in flavor and texture, all carried with verve on a spine of classic Piedirosso acidity. This is very much a wine destined for food vs. the couch!