Lazio

Why Lazio's reds deserve more attention than they usually get

Lazio is a region better known for its aperitif whites, but over recent decades it has built, especially in the Colli Prenestini area, a small yet solid tradition of quality reds, capable of telling a lesser-known but equally authentic side of Lazio wine.

Cesanese and beyond: the territories of Lazio's reds

The absolute protagonist is Cesanese, a native grape that finds its fullest expression in the Piglio area, in the province of Frosinone: Cesanese del Piglio DOCG is the only Lazio red denomination at this level, produced in a hilly area with volcanic soils. Not far away, the Cesanese di Olevano Romano and Cesanese di Affile denominations, both DOC, tell variants of the same grape in neighbouring areas. Alongside Cesanese, other parts of the region also grow Montepulciano and Sangiovese, often blended.

From fresh Cesanese to Riserva: the styles of Lazio's reds

Base Cesanese presents as a fruity red with lively tannin and a slightly almond-like note typical of the grape. The Superiore and Riserva versions, with longer ageing, gain structure and complexity, moving closer to a style resembling hillside reds from more renowned areas. Blends with Montepulciano or Sangiovese instead offer a softer, more immediate profile.

At the table with Lazio's reds: pairings that work

Young Cesanese pairs well with everyday Roman cuisine, from porchetta to hearty first courses. The more structured Riserva versions go with grilled meats, lamb, and aged cheeses typical of the Castelli Romani and Ciociaria areas. The softer blends with Montepulciano work alongside cured meats and fresh cheeses.

Which Lazio red to choose, depending on the occasion

For an informal meal, a young Cesanese offers freshness and immediacy. For a more important occasion, Cesanese del Piglio DOCG in its Superiore or Riserva version delivers more structure and the ability to accompany a whole meal. Anyone wanting to discover a lesser-known but characterful Lazio red will find Cesanese the region's most interesting discovery.

Frequently asked questions

What is Cesanese del Piglio?

It's Lazio's only red DOCG, produced in the hilly Piglio area, in the province of Frosinone, from Cesanese grapes grown on volcanic soils.

What's the difference between Cesanese del Piglio, di Olevano Romano, and di Affile?

These are three different denominations tied to the same grape but to distinct geographical areas: only Piglio has achieved DOCG status, while the other two remain DOC.

Is Cesanese a wine suited to ageing?

Base versions are meant for young consumption, but the Superiore and Riserva types, with longer ageing, can develop interesting complexity over time.

Are reds from international grape varieties also produced in Lazio?

Yes, several areas of the region also grow Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah, often varietal or blended, alongside the Cesanese and Sangiovese tradition.