Southern Italy’s Treasure: The Best in Farm to Table Dining

It’s called “Agriturismo”.

The name gives it away.

Translation, a working farm, vineyard (or both!), open to guests offering hospitality in a rural setting. Usually with an emphasis on sustainability and a connection with the land. Perfect for our Italian adventure where gastronomy is the heart and soul of this country.

In the Campania and Salerno regions, the farm to table experience is like no other I’ve ever sampled. Highlights of two recent experiences are shared in this post.

The first, is the Cantina del Vesuvio, forty acres of vineyard, planted in the volcanic soil on the slopes of Mount Vesuvius.

Meet Maurizio Russo, the youngest of this historic family of vintners who have worked these hills every day since 1930 to create a winery which combines the rigors of organic production with the warmth of Italian hospitality . 

They produce a limited number of bottles each year, all sold directly from their own wine shop. We ordered a mixed case of their Lacryma Christi wines and sweet vinegars, made from grapes indigenous to the slopes of Mount Vesuvius, and has been produced since Ancient Roman times. 

The name Lacryma Christi has its roots in legend. My favorite is that of Lucifer, who took with him a piece of heaven when he was cast out. When Christ saw Italy’s Gulf of Naples, he recognized it as this stolen piece and wept over the loss. It’s said that vines of Lacryma Christi sprang miraculously from the earth where his tears fell.

Regardless, it is some of the most delicious wine this side of heaven.

Second, a completely different experience at the rustic working farm of La Sorgente in Sorrento. Dairy, livestock, fruits, vegetables, acres of olive and lemon trees, an ancient olive press and a huge brick oven where visitors make and eat their own pizza creations. Every ingredient of our meal produced on the farm.

Six courses, all bursting with fresh natural flavors, organically grown on this amazing family owned farm where I felt like a welcomed family friend who had dropped in for dinner! Italy is filled with these “masserias” or family owned farming restaurants. Heartily recommend!