Fontana Candida's Cannellino di Frascati DOCG 2025 reveals the sweet side of the Castelli Romani wine tradition. Its appeal lies in sweetness derived from the grapes' natural sugars, balanced by freshness that keeps the palate lively. Rather than a heavy dessert wine, it offers the fragrant, approachable character of the local Malvasia varieties.

Malvasia grapes from the Frascati hills

The grapes are grown in the Frascati production area of Lazio, in volcanic hills just outside Rome. Established in 1958 and based in Monte Porzio Catone, Fontana Candida draws on this local heritage. Its Cannellino is made from Malvasia Bianca di Candia and Malvasia del Lazio.

How the natural sweetness is preserved

The grapes are harvested when fully ripe and taken promptly to the winery. They undergo cold maceration, gentle pressing and must clarification before temperature-controlled fermentation. Fermentation is stopped while some of the grapes' natural residual sugar remains. The wine is then kept at low temperature in stainless-steel tanks to retain its fresh varietal aromas.

Tasting profile, food pairings and serving

In the glass it shows an intense straw-yellow colour. Aromas suggest white-fleshed fruit, flowers and acacia honey. The palate is soft and sweet, with enough freshness to bring balance and definition to the finish.

Serve at 8-10°C alongside dry pastries, fruit tarts and delicately sweet desserts. It can also be paired with flavourful cheeses for an appealing contrast between sweetness and savouriness.

The 2025 vintage comes in a 750 ml bottle and is an inviting introduction to the traditional sweet wines of the Frascati area.