Passion on the Vine by Sergio Esposito

Passion on the Vine: A Memoir of Food, Wine, and Family in the Heart of Italy, by Sergio Esposito, reviewed by Tom Birch, Branch Head, Zauel Memorial Library
(Broadway Books, 2008, 285 pages, $24.95)

Sergio Esposito, an Italian-born and New York-based wine merchant, has written a delightful and richly textured description of the Italian way of life. He recalls his early childhood in Naples, family migration to New York, and trips to the old country to sample and buy Italian wines. Many of the tastiest fruits and vegetables are grown in the acidic volcanic soil at the foot of Mt. Vesuvius, under the hot Mediterranean sun. Eating a delectable meal, prepared without a recipe, is expected every day, but not complete without a glass of good wine.