Cesanese (Vino Rosso)

The Cesanese is a red wine grape variety indigenous to Lazio, particularly the hills southeast of Rome. Its origins trace back to ancient Roman viticulture, and it remains one of the few native Italian grapes thriving in the region. The wine is made exclusively from Cesanese grapes, often blended in small quantities for complexity. A great Cesanese is distinguished by its balance of bright acidity, soft tannins, and notes of red berries, violet, and a characteristic earthy or savory finish—qualities that make it both approachable and age-worthy. Regional variations are defined by the specific subzones: Cesanese di Olevano Romano tends to be fuller and more structured, while Cesanese di Affile is typically more delicate and aromatic. The wine can be produced as still or frizzante, and the best examples show a clear sense of place. In Rocca di Papa, Italia, La Vecchia Stazione offers a classic pairing of this wine with local cuisine, as highlighted by the creator JustUs, who notes the venue’s commitment to showcasing regional products. Whether enjoyed at a Roman trattoria or a hilltop enoteca, Cesanese reflects the volcanic soils and centuries of winemaking tradition in Lazio.