Self-sustaining hydration
The volcanic earth naturally retains moisture, meaning our vines never need artificial irrigation.
Lacryma Christi D.O.C. · Mount Vesuvius
Lacryma Christi D.O.C. The volcanic wine of Mount Vesuvius
Legend says that when Lucifer was cast out of Heaven, he stole a piece of paradise to create the Gulf of Naples. Looking down at the beauty and the sorrow of the land, Christ wept, and where his tears fell on the volcanic soil of Mt. Vesuvius, the first vines of Lacryma Christi (Tears of Christ) began to grow.
Shipping and insurance included in every box.
Our vineyards do not just grow; they thrive on the slopes of Mt. Vesuvius, rooted in dark, porous volcanic soil rich in ash, minerals, and lapilli. These vines are living history, descendants of the ancient Aminei grapes brought from Greece in the 5th century B.C.
In the vineyard
Natural harmony & traditional wisdom
The guardians of the vineyard
We plant roses at the head of our vine rows. Like delicate sentinels, they signal the health of the soil before any technical instrument can.
Organic commitment
We use only organic fertilizers, sulfur, and copper, respecting the delicate balance of this protected ecosystem.
In the glass
Tasting notes
Red · Intense & earthy
Lacryma Christi Rosso D.O.C.
- Aroma
- Wild berries, violets, and a distinct touch of volcanic smoke.
- Palate
- Full-bodied and warm, with velvety tannins and a long, mineral finish.
- Pairing
- Perfect with roasted meats, aged cheeses, and traditional Neapolitan pasta.
- Serve at
- 16–18°C (61–64°F)
White · Fresh & mineral
Lacryma Christi Bianco D.O.C.
- Aroma
- Notes of broom flowers, golden apple, and Mediterranean herbs.
- Palate
- Dry and elegant, with a vibrant acidity and a salty finish that speaks of the sea and the volcano.
- Pairing
- Grilled branzino, linguine alle vongole, burrata, fried zucchini blossoms, fresh seafood.
- Serve at
- 10–12°C (50–54°F)
Native varieties
Our indigenous grapes
Caprettone The white soul
A rare, autochthonous grape found only here. Named after the "goat's beard" shape of its clusters, we cultivate it using the ancient Pergola system. This leafy canopy protects the thin-skinned grapes from the intense Mediterranean sun while shading the roots, a vital traditional technique in the face of climate change.
Falanghina The volcanic sun
An ancient Mediterranean variety that finds its perfect expression in our volcanic ash. Our Falanghina is celebrated for its vibrant acidity and unmistakable mineral streak. It is the perfect companion to Caprettone, adding brightness and floral notes to our most refined blends.
Piedirosso The red heritage
Known locally as Per e' Palummo (Pigeon's Foot) because of its red-streaked stems. We grow our Piedirosso primarily on Spalliera (Guyot) systems to ensure perfect sun exposure and sugar concentration, resulting in an optimal fermentation and a vibrant, volcanic character.
Aglianico The Hellenic giant
One of Italy's most prestigious red grapes, brought here by the Greeks millennia ago. In our volcanic terroir, Aglianico develops incredible power and longevity. We use it for our most structured reserves and our Rosé sparkling wines, where it provides an elegant backbone and complex tannins.
Why Quirinoli
From our family cellar to your table
- Small batchWe produce a limited selection of 10,000 bottles annually, ensuring every drop meets our family standards.
- Directly from the sourceNo middleman. Every bottle is shipped from our cellar at the foot of the volcano.
- Volcanic terroirOur soil is rich in potassium and sulfur, giving the wine its unique "fire" and longevity.
- Safe worldwide shippingWe use specialized anti-breakage packaging to ensure your bottles arrive in perfect condition.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
What grapes are used in Lacryma Christi?
Lacryma Christi Bianco is produced from Caprettone, Falanghina, and Coda di Volpe. The Rosso is based on Piedirosso and Aglianico. These are native Campanian varieties grown almost exclusively on the volcanic slopes of Vesuvius. Our Bianco is 80% Caprettone and 20% Falanghina; our Rosso is 80% Piedirosso and 20% Aglianico.
What does Lacryma Christi wine taste like?
The Bianco is fresh and mineral — white peach, citrus, and a distinctive saline finish from the volcanic soil. The Rosso is medium-bodied with dark cherry, dried herbs, and earthy minerality. Both wines carry a freshness that surprises people expecting a heavy southern Italian wine.
Is Lacryma Christi organic?
Not all producers are certified. Quirinoli wines are certified organic, grown without synthetic pesticides or herbicides on the protected slopes of Vesuvius National Park.
Can I visit the winery?
Yes. Quirinoli hosts daily wine tastings with a farm-to-table lunch on the slopes of Mount Vesuvius, with a complimentary shuttle from Pompeii. It is one of the few places in the world where you can taste Lacryma Christi D.O.C. on the land where it is grown. Book your wine tasting.
How do I order Lacryma Christi online?
Our wines ship in boxes of 3, 6, 12, 24, 36 or 48 bottles. You can build your own box, mixing any of our wines and liqueurs, or choose one of our selections. Shipping and insurance are always included in the price.
Experience the legend
Bring Vesuvius to your table
Mix Lacryma Christi Rosso and Bianco with the rest of our wines, shipping included.