🍇 Cesanese

Cesanese is a red grape from Lazio in central Italy, around Rome. It grows on the hills east and south of the capital. Two main types are distinguished: Cesanese d’Affile, smaller and more prized, and Cesanese Comune, larger.

Cesanese is one of the main local red grapes of Lazio. Wines with protected names are made from it: Cesanese del Piglio, Cesanese di Affile and Cesanese di Olevano Romano, as well as wines from the Anagni, Frusinate and Roma zones. These names are tied to towns in the provinces of Frosinone and Rome.

The wine is ruby-coloured, soft and spicy, with aromas of cherry, raspberry, violet and pepper. The tannins are moderate and the taste balanced. There are dry and slightly sweet versions. It is served with grilled meat, pasta and cheese.

Cesanese belongs to Italian wine and to Lazio. In recent decades interest in it has grown, and the wine has begun to be made more seriously. Alcohol is for adults.