It had been a long day. To be honest, the last couple of weeks have been pretty busy. Wednesday, for example, I delivered a graduation speech in shoes with heels that were probably too high and I was ready too go home and crash. But I had one more appointment. A quick drive by appointment with winemaker Gerardo Vernazzaro of Cantine Astroni (Na). I sent a message to Vernazzaro saying I'd swing by the winery around 5...he suggested I stop by around 6.
Some friends are stopping by, dai...we'll visit the vineyards and have a quick aperitif on the Astroni crater wall.
It had been awhile since I'd visited a vineyard. Probably too long. So, sure...why not.
A white knuckle ride with Vernazzaro at the wheel who lead us through a busy metropolitan Neapolitan city to two breathtaking vineyards - which I'll write about in detail soon- then back home to the winery's headquarters in Agnano (Na).
Winemaker Gerardo Vernazzaro
There we set up camp with a dozen or so friends including amico Claudio Tenuta. Claudio, sommelier and man with a grande passion for good food was in charge of the snacks. As Vernazzaro prepared the wine, opening up a young fresh Colle Imperatrice Falanghina Dei Campi Flegrei DOP 2014, Tenuta prepared his first appetizer of the evening. 
A thick slice of crusty bread topped with fresh ricotta cheese. He placed chopped arugula salad and a slice of fresh yellow bell pepper. Right before handing it to me, Tenuta sprinkled a bit of pepper on top.
A cool breeze, light conversation, a glass of Colle Imperatrice and a bruschetta was just what the doctor ordered...
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