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Cesanese
Cesanese is an Italian red grape variety with a long history of winemaking in the Lazio region, but only in recent decades, the grape variety is rediscovered as a variety that makes high quality wines. There are two distinctive types of Cesanese, the more common and large-berried Cesanese Commune, and higher quality but less common Cesanese di Affile.
Colour, Aromas and Taste Profile
Cesanese has a deep ruby-red colour with hints of purple. The aromas are intense and aromatic, with notes of blackberry, cherry, black pepper and violet. On the palate, it is medium-bodied, with juicy red fruit flavours, soft tannins and balanced acidity.
Regional Features & Food Pairings
Cesanese is mainly grown in the Lazio region of Italy, particularly in the provinces of Roma, Frosinone and Latina. It is also found in Tuscany and Umbria. Cesanese is known to be a difficult grape to cultivate, mostly because it is hard to ripe, even in the sunny Lazio region. When it reaches full ripeness, it is able to produce wines of great potential. Historically, Cesanese is used to make a variety of styles, including a light and fruity rosé, a dry and savoury red and a sweet, fortified passito. Today, winemakers appy a more quality-focused approach to make Cesanese dry wine. Cesanese del Piglio DOCG, Cesanese di Olevano Romano DOC and Cesanese di Affile are the examples of Cesanese wines. Cesanese pairs well with a variety of Italian dishes, such as pasta with red sauce, pizza and grilled meats. It is also an excellent choice for roasted vegetables and hard cheeses.
Foods to pair with Cesanese:
Smoky
Beef
Cheese
Sausage
Pizza
Fun Fact about Cesanese
Cesanese is believed to have originated in the Lazio region in the 4th century BC. It was first mentioned in documents from the 9th century AD.
Top Wines with Cesanese
Damiano Ciolli Silene Cesanese di Olevano Romano Superiore
Damiano Ciolli
Damiano Ciolli Silene Cesanese di Olevano Romano Superiore is an extraordinary wine from Olevano Romano, crafted with grapes sourced from exceptional vineyard sites boasting optimal sun exposure and well-drained soils. Hand-harvested and meticulously fermented and aged, this wine epitomizes quality winemaking. With its rich flavors, elegant structure, and harmonious balance of fruit and acidity, it showcases the artistry and passion behind winemaking. This remarkable Italian wine, featuring aromas of geraniums, spices, and roses, offers a true sensory experience. Enjoy it with hearty dishes or savor it on its own to explore its multifaceted taste profile.
Read more Food Pairing:
Chicken
Pork
Pasta
Soup
Lamb
Cheese
Vietnamese
Egg
Turkey
Bruschetta And Crostini
Casserole
Mushroom
Risotto
Quiche And Savoury Tart
Casale del Giglio Cesanese Lazio Rosso
Casale del Giglio
Casale del Giglio Cesanese Lazio Rosso is still dry red wine with a supple structure and a sour cherry and rose flavor profile intended for drinking over the medium term. The wine is made in the Laizo region of Italy, which surrounds Rome. The wine is made using the native Casanese grape, a late ripening variety that needs abundant sunshine to rully ripen. The steep local hillsides of the rive valley provide sufficient sun exposure for this to occur. The winemaking involves careful tannin extraction and the avoidance of new oak which would overwhelm the gentle aromatics. This is a good alternative to Gamay or Beaujolais and a must try for drinkers who enjoy rediscovering lost grapes.
Read more Food Pairing:
Chicken
Pork
Pasta
Soup
Lamb
Cheese
Vietnamese
Egg
Turkey
Bruschetta And Crostini
Casserole
Mushroom
Risotto
Quiche And Savoury Tart
Marco Carpineti Tufaliccio Rosso
Marco Carpineti
Marco Carpineti Tufaliccio Rosso is an everyday wine from Lazio, crafted from a blend of Cesanese and Montepulciano grapes. Aged exclusively in stainless steel, this wine retains its fresh and vibrant character. It's designed for easy enjoyment and captures the essence of the Lazio region. Tufaliccio Rosso highlights the natural flavors of the local grape varieties in a straightforward and accessible way.
Read more Food Pairing:
Chicken
Pork
Pasta
Cheese
Turkey
Bruschetta And Crostini
Casserole
Mushroom
Risotto
Quiche And Savoury Tart
Corte dei Papi San Magno Cesanese del Piglio
Corte dei Papi
San Magno is a wine crafted from Cesanese d’Affile grapes sourced from intensely spaced vineyards in selected micro-areas within the Anagni municipality. Fermentation is carried out at a temperature of 25-26°C to achieve optimal color extraction and varietal aromas. Post-fermentation, a warm maceration is performed while the must is still on the skins, enhancing the wine's gustatory pleasantness. Following malolactic fermentation, which stabilizes the product and improves the organoleptic sensations of softness and volume, San Magno matures for 12 months in French oak barriques, followed by an additional 6 months in stainless steel before bottling. It can be enjoyed for many years after bottling.
Read more Food Pairing:
Beef
Cheese
Vegetable
Costa Graia Piglio San Giovanni Natural
Costa Graia
Costa Graia Piglio San Giovanni is a remarkable wine that showcases the best of its appellation. Crafted in the Piglio region, this wine is produced by a passionate and skilled winemaker who has mastered the art of winemaking. The vineyard where the grapes are grown boasts unique features, such as its ideal microclimate and well-drained soil, which contribute to the wine's exceptional quality. The winemaking process involves careful selection of the finest grapes and a meticulous fermentation process, resulting in a wine that is elegant and full-bodied. Costa Graia Piglio San Giovanni is known for its rich flavors, balanced acidity, and velvety tannins, making it a perfect choice for wine enthusiasts seeking a sophisticated and memorable experience.
Read more Food Pairing:
Beef
Vegetable