Lazio

Why Lazio's whites remain a classic of Italian aperitivo culture

Lazio is one of the Italian regions most identified with aperitif white wine, thanks above all to the fame of the Castelli Romani. Behind this popular reputation, however, lies a tradition built on native grapes and denominations with centuries of history.

Frascati and Montefiascone: the territories of Lazio's whites

Frascati, produced in the Castelli Romani south of Rome, is the region's best-known denomination and has achieved DOCG status in its Superiore version, made from Malvasia and Trebbiano grown on volcanic soils. Further north, in the Lake Bolsena area, the Est! Est!! Est!!! di Montefiascone denomination produces whites in a similar style, also based on Trebbiano and Malvasia.

From fresh Frascati to Superiore: the styles of Lazio's whites

Base Frascati offers a fresh, light, easy-drinking white, made for an aperitif. The Superiore version, with lower yields, gains structure and aromatic complexity. Est! Est!! Est!!! di Montefiascone follows a similar style, equally delicate but tied to a distinct terroir, the volcanic land around Lake Bolsena.

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

Frascati pairs naturally with Roman cuisine, from Jewish-style artichokes to vegetable-based first courses. In its Superiore version it also holds up to more structured fish dishes. Est! Est!! Est!!! di Montefiascone pairs well with lake-area starters and fresh cheeses typical of the region.

Which Lazio white to choose, depending on the occasion

For a traditional Roman aperitif, a base Frascati remains the most immediate choice. For a more refined meal, the Superiore version offers more structure. Anyone wanting to discover a lesser-known but equally authentic expression of the region can look to Est! Est!! Est!!! di Montefiascone.

Frequently asked questions

Why is Frascati Superiore considered better than base Frascati?

It's not an absolute hierarchy but a matter of lower vineyard yields, which allow for a wine with greater concentration and structure compared to the standard version.

Where does the name Est! Est!! Est!!! di Montefiascone come from?

According to popular tradition, it derives from an anecdote linked to a German bishop travelling to Rome in the Middle Ages [DA VERIFICARE], used to mark the best taverns along the route.

Are Lazio's whites only for aperitifs?

No, especially in their Superiore versions, these wines can also accompany first courses and fish dishes, not just a casual aperitif.

Which grapes make up Frascati?

The ampelographic base mainly consists of Malvasia and Trebbiano, grown on the volcanic soils typical of the Castelli Romani.