The Pomodori Piennolo DOP is a small, pear shaped, deep red tomato. The unique characteristics of the Piennolo tomatoes derive from the lava-rich, potassium laden, sandy soil of the National Park of Mt. Vesuvius in which they grow. The tomato develops a slightly thick skin to protect itself from the day to night temperature fluctuations characteristic of the area. But, the skin remains soft enough to eat.
If not jarred, the Piennolo tomatoes are commonly hung up and dried in bunches tied with hemp string, hence the name “piennolo”, meaning “hanging” in Neapolitan dialect. Gentile hand-fills each jar with Piennolo del Vesuvio tomatoes–that’s it, just tomatoes! No citric acid, no preservatives. Each bite will remind you of summer gardens.
