Latium

The Lazio wine region covers approximately 48,000 hectares of vineyards and lies in the heart of central Italy, surrounding the capital city of Rome. Already in antiquity, the region was an important supplier to the Roman metropolis; today, Lazio ranks among the medium-sized wine regions of Italy, measured by vineyard area and the proportion of DOP wines.

Climate and soils

The climate in Lazio is characterized by a strong coastal-inland gradient: dry and hot summers with mild winters dominate on the Tyrrhenian coast, while the climate inland becomes cooler and wetter due to mountainous terrain. Sea breezes ensure moderate air circulation and lower humidity, while winds such as the warm Sirocco and the cooler Tramontana influence the ripening of the grapes.

The soils in Lazio are predominantly of volcanic origin, especially in the ancient crater landscapes of northern Lazio near Viterbo. These well-drained, mineral-rich volcanic soils give the wines their typical freshness and structure. The landscape is varied, with hills, plains, and lakes, creating diverse microclimates.

Which wines grow in Lazio?

In Lazio, around 200 grape varieties are permitted, but only a dozen or so are of economic importance. White wines dominate production, accounting for almost 90 percent. Important indigenous white varieties include Malvasia (Malvasia di Candia and Malvasia del Lazio) and Trebbiano Toscano, often blended with Grechetto or Bombino. Among red wines, Cesanese, Sangiovese, and Montepulciano play the leading roles, while international varieties such as Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah are increasingly appearing in modern blends.

Famous wines and winemakers

Perhaps the most famous wine of Lazio is Frascati, and in particular the DOCG-classified Frascati Superiore, a crisp white wine made from Malvasia and Trebbiano grapes, traditionally served with seafood or pasta. Equally renowned is the legendary Est! Est!! Est!!! di Montefiascone DOP, whose name derives from a medieval anecdote about its exceptional quality. Among the red wines, the aromatic Cesanese del Piglio has established itself, its fragrant, velvety character pairing particularly well with grilled meats and lamb. Well-known winemakers who have enhanced the region's reputation include Riccardo Cotarella with his Falesco winery, whose Est! Est!! Est!!! projects are exemplary, as well as families like Pandolfo (Cantina Sant'Andrea near Terracina) and the Terre di Marfisa winery in the Tuscia area near Lake Bolsena, who offer modern interpretations of the local terroirs.

DOC, DOCG and IGT areas in Lazio

There is only 1 DOCG area in Lazio. Cesanes del Piglio DOCG is known for its strong Cesanese red wines. There are also 27 DOC regions: Frascati DOC, Est! Est!! Est!!! di Montefiascone DOC, Castelli Romani DOC, Colli Albani DOC, Cerveteri DOC, Cesanese di Affile DOC, Cesanese di Olevano Romano DOC, Marino DOC, Velletri DOC, Zagarolo DOC, Aprilia DOC, Bianco Capena DOC, Colli della Sabina DOC, Cori DOC, Tarquinia DOC, Trevignano DOC, Aleatico di Gradoli DOC, Orvieto DOC. There are five IGT or IGP regions: Lazio IGT , Colli Cimini IGT, Anagni IGT, Ninfa IGT, Civitella d'Agliano IGT

Culinary accompaniment

The wines of Lazio pair perfectly with the regional cuisine. Fresh, acidic white wines such as Frascati or Bellone varieties are ideal with Roman classics like carbonara, bucatini all'Amatriciana, or fried baccalà. Grilled seafood also harmonizes wonderfully with these vibrant whites, while Cesanese and other red wines from the hinterland are worthy companions to grilled lamb, dishes with pecorino cheese, or the traditional oxtail ragu, coda alla vaccinara.