LAZIO
Location
Lazio is a region in central Italy, and it’s home to the ancient capital city of Rome
Grape Variety:
Trebbiano: A versatile grape used for both still and sparkling wines.
Malvasia di Candia: Known for its aromatic qualities.
Malvasia Puntinata: Another Malvasia variety with distinct characteristics.
Climate:
The climate in Lazio is conducive to viticulture. The warm Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot summers, provides an ideal environment for grape cultivation. The cooling influence of nearby lakes and the Tyrrhenian Sea contributes to the grapes’ development.
History:
Traditionally, Lazio’s white wines were fat, rounded, and slightly sweet (abboccato), designed for immediate consumption. However, modern vinification methods have shifted the style toward lighter, drier, and crisper wines. These whites pair wonderfully with local cuisine, cutting through the richness of dishes like porchetta (herb-roasted pork) and abbacchio (young lamb).
Famous Wines:
Frascati: Perhaps the most well-known Lazio white wine, Frascati comes from the picturesque fortified towns and villages around the Castelli Romani appellation. It’s designed for drinking young and pairs beautifully with local dishes.
Est! Est!! Est!!! di Montefiascone: Produced around Lake Bolsena, this lesser-known gem is worth exploring.
Roma DOC: Established in 2011, this DOC provides a marketable name for producers around Rome, overlapping with other Lazio DOCs.
Orvieto: Although shared with Lazio’s northeastern neighbor, Umbria, Orvieto has made a name for itself.
Marino: Another notable DOC.
Aleatico di Gradoli: A rare find around Lake Bolsena, this sweet red wine can also be transformed into a liquoroso.
Cesanese del Piglio: Lazio’s third DOCG, with the hills south of Rome being its home. Other Cesaneses include di Olevano Romano and di Affile.