Cesanese di Affile

Cesanese di Affile

By Master Chef Gianluca Deiana Abis

1. History

Cesanese di Affile, an indigenous red grape variety from Lazio, has been cultivated for centuries in the hills southeast of Rome. The village of Affile, in the province of Frosinone, serves as the heart of this wine’s production. Historically prized for its elegant aromas and refined tannins, Cesanese di Affile was once a favorite among Roman nobility. The region’s volcanic soils, combined with a Mediterranean climate of warm days and cool nights, create ideal conditions for this late-ripening grape. Over the years, Cesanese di Affile has evolved from a relatively obscure local varietal into a celebrated expression of Lazio’s winemaking heritage, known for its unique combination of vibrant red fruit, floral aromas, and hints of spice.

2. Pairing

Cesanese di Affile’s medium body, fresh acidity, and silky tannins make it a versatile companion for a range of central Italian cuisine.

• Pasta all’Amatriciana: The wine’s bright cherry and raspberry notes enhance the tangy tomato sauce and savory guanciale.

• Porchetta: Its balanced structure and subtle spice complement the rich, herb-infused flavors of slow-roasted pork.

• Grilled Lamb Chops with Rosemary: The wine’s earthy and herbal undertones harmonize with the lamb’s smoky, aromatic crust.

• Aged Pecorino Romano or Caciocavallo: The salty, nutty complexity of these cheeses finds a perfect partner in Cesanese’s ripe fruit and floral accents.

• Mushroom and Truffle Risotto: The wine’s fresh acidity and delicate spice elevate the earthy, umami flavors of mushrooms and truffles.

3. The Top Wineries

• Cantina del Tufaio: A respected producer crafting elegant, terroir-driven Cesanese di Affile that showcases the region’s volcanic soil and traditional methods.

• Casale della Ioria: Known for their high-quality Cesanese di Affile, this family-run estate produces wines that highlight the grape’s floral, spicy character.

• Colle Ticchio: A boutique winery dedicated to preserving the heritage of Cesanese di Affile, offering balanced, refined expressions of this indigenous varietal.

4. The Notes of Master Chef Gianluca Deiana Abis

Cesanese di Affile is a wine that always surprises me with its elegance and complexity. For me, it represents the untapped potential of Lazio’s winemaking, offering something truly unique. The combination of vibrant fruit, floral aromas, and subtle spice makes it a pleasure to pair with traditional Roman dishes, but it also holds its own as a sipping wine. I admire how Cesanese di Affile captures the history and terroir of central Italy, providing a fresh, approachable alternative to the better-known wines of Tuscany or Piedmont. It’s a reminder that Italian wine is as diverse as it is exceptional.