This vibrant Lacryma Christi 2009 Rosso hails from the lava-caked foothills of Mount Vesuvius, just east of the spirited bayside city of Naples. Lovers of Campanese wines already know that the region's mild year-round climate and cool Mediterranean breezes provide ideal growing conditions for its indigenous varietals. This deliciously inexpensive blend is crafted with fruit sourced from Caputo's Enodelta, twenty-five hectares of sun-baked volcanic soil at altitudes of 300-500 meters. Campania's local varietals include the smoky, licorice and berry infused Piedirosso and Aglianico, varietals that are uniquely suited to the volcanic soils of the region. This delightful wine is aged entirely in stainless steel, which allows the subtleties and nuances of the smoky, mineral-driven terroir to come out naturally. The 2009 vintage in southern Italy has been highly lauded by critics and oenophiles alike. This is easily one of the most interesting, well-balanced red quaffers we've come across at this price.

Aromas of red current, cherry, cocoa, tar, licorice, and dusty earth on the nose give way to tobacco leaf and smoky black minerals on the palate. A rustic yet smooth, well-balanced, medium-bodied red with bright acidity. In the glass over time evolve pretty scents of mint, flowers and dried herbs that add complexity and elegance. Perfect with pizza, spicy seafood pasta, or on its own with salumi, antipasti, and hard sheep's milk cheeses. The blend is 65% Piedirosso, 35% Aglianico, all grown in the black lava caked soils of region.

Not reviewed; 2010 vintage rated 87 points by Robert Parker: "The wild strawberry, sweet cherry and damp earth-scented and flavored, fresh, light-bodied 2010 Lacryma di Christi can be drunk slightly chilled (as you would a Beaujolais). Enodelta has fashioned three very good values."