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The Wine History of the Lazio Region: Between Roman Heritage and Volcanic Terroirs
Lazio, or Lazio in Italian, is much more than a central region of Italy. It is a cultural and wine cradle rooted in Roman antiquity. Its rolling landscapes, volcanic soil, and Mediterranean climate offer a unique terroir suitable for viticulture. For centuries, this Italian region has been synonymous with authentic wines, blending history and modernity.
A Millennial Roman Heritage
Lazio's wine history dates back to ancient Rome. The Romans, great wine lovers, perfected winemaking techniques inherited from the Etruscans and Greeks. At that time, wine was not just a drink: it was a symbol of civilization, power, and conviviality.
The vineyards surrounding Rome produced highly prized wines, such as the famous Falerner, described as a rich and powerful wine, whose spicy flavors and amber color were particularly appreciated. This wine, made from the (now extinct) Aminea variety, marked history as one of the first great crus of antiquity.
The Romans also introduced innovative viticultural practices for the time: stone vats, wax-sealed amphorae, and aging methods to improve wine preservation and taste.
An Exceptional Terroir: The Volcanic Soils and Hills of the Castelli Romani
Lazio benefits from a diversity of soils and climates that shape the quality of its wines. The volcanic hills of the Castelli Romani, located southeast of Rome, are particularly suitable for viticulture. These soils, rich in minerals, bring remarkable freshness and minerality to the wines, especially for white grape varieties, in this region near Rome.
Lazio's vineyards extend up to 600 meters in altitude, where cooler, more humid air promotes slow grape ripening. In the plains and along the Tyrrhenian coast, calcareous and sandy soils, combined with a hot and dry climate, are ideal for red grape varieties.
The exceptional natural conditions of Lazio, especially in the Castelli Romani, are reflected in its wines: from fresh and fruity whites to mineral and intense reds, this region offers a palette of varied flavors.
The Evolution of Viticulture Through the Centuries
In the Middle Ages, wine production in Lazio, or Lazio in Italian, flourished under the influence of religious orders and the Papal States. Meticulously maintained vineyards produced wines for the Church and the nobility. The anecdote of the "Est! Est!! Est!!!" wine, popularized by a German bishop, testifies to the renown of Lazio wines throughout medieval Europe.
In the 19th century, Lazio experienced a viticultural revival with the unification of Italy and the improvement of winemaking techniques. Today, passionate winemakers like Riccardo Cotarella continue to enhance local grapes, transforming the terroir's potential into high-quality wines.
Lazio, a land of basaltic hills and ancient traditions, is a wine region that embodies the essence of Italy. Its wines, rooted in heritage and enhanced by modern techniques, are an invitation to explore the richness of this unique terroir. Whether for a fresh white wine or a powerful red, each bottle tells a story, that of a region where Rome and Lazio wine are much more than a heritage: they represent an art of living.
Our winemakers from the Lazio region
Le Coste: Between Ecology, Diversity, and Natural Wines
In 2004, Gian Marco Antonuzzi and Clémentine Bouveron founded Le Coste, an estate located in Gradoli, in the heart of Lazio, between Rome and Florence, on the basaltic shores of Lake Bolsena. Inspired by their experience with major natural wine figures like Didier Barral and Philippe Pacalet, they reinvented an old "vineyard and olive grove garden" abandoned for over twenty years. The project gradually developed, blending respect for biodiversity, traditional know-how, and modernity. Today, the estate spans 14 hectares including vineyards, olive groves, and fruit trees, reflecting sustainable polyculture.
A Unique Terroir
The mineral-rich basaltic soils, combined with altitude (450-600 meters) and constant winds, offer ideal conditions for cultivating local grape varieties such as Aleatico, Grechetto Rosso, and Procanico. The densely planted vines, using ancient techniques, are cultivated without chemicals. Biodynamic preparations and homemade composts strengthen the natural balance of the soils and plants.
Natural Winemaking
At Le Coste, each step of winemaking respects a minimalist and natural philosophy. Harvesting is manual, fermentations are spontaneous thanks to indigenous yeasts, and no additives or sulfur are used. The unfiltered and unfined wines rest in cement tanks or old oak barrels, revealing unique purity and sincerity.
Living and Expressive Wines
The estate produces a varied range of red, white, rosé, and orange wines, all characterized by their drinkability and depth. These cuvées embody the soul of the Bolsena terroir: lively, free, and of great authenticity. This estate is an ode to sustainable agriculture and natural wine, a source of inspiration for lovers of sincere red wines.
Corvagialla: An Adventure of Passion and Respect for Nature
Founded in 2007 by Beatrice Arweiler, Corvagialla was born from a deep desire to combine environmental commitment with artisanal creation. After a career in fashion and cinema, Beatrice decided to transform a corner of Italy into a model of a circular and sustainable farm. The beginnings were modest: olive trees, fruit trees, and organic vegetable gardens. But quickly, the estate expanded to include animals, vines, and finally a cellar, built in 2016 to produce exceptional natural wines.
A Philosophy Rooted in the Earth
From its early days, Corvagialla has been committed to regenerative and biodynamic agriculture, certified organic since 2018. The "0/0" philosophy, the true heart of the viticultural approach, reflects an uncompromising practice: nothing is added, nothing is removed. Fermentations are spontaneous, led by indigenous yeasts, without sulfites or additives. Each wine, unfiltered and unfined, tells the raw and authentic story of the estate's terroir.
Natural Wine as a Heritage
In 2021, Niccolo, Beatrice's son, took over winemaking with expertise acquired at the University of Mendoza and from Gianmarco Antonuzzi, a key figure in Corvagialla's beginnings. Today, each cuvée is a celebration of respect for the land and the seasons. Faced with climate challenges, Corvagialla remains faithful to its mission: to adapt with humility while remaining a model of excellence in natural crus.
The Emblematic Wines of the Lazio Region
Frascati Superiore DOCG, a true star of Italian white wines, comes from the Castelli Romani hills. This blend of Malvasia and Trebbiano seduces with its freshness and aromas, making it a must-have to accompany fish and fresh cheeses. Already appreciated in Roman times, Frascati Superiore DOCG continues to embody the excellence of Lazio whites.
In red, Cesanese di Affile stands out as a regional pride. This emblematic grape variety produces powerful and elegant wines, with notes of black fruits and spices. Cesanese di Affile, appreciated for its tannic structure, is ideal for accompanying rich dishes. It perfectly symbolizes the diversity and unique character of Lazio reds, confirming the celebrated reputation of Cesanese di Affile among the great Italian grape varieties.
Lazio Grape Varieties: An Authentic Richness to Discover
The Lazio region, located in the heart of Italy, abounds with indigenous grape varieties that bear witness to a millennial wine history. These varieties, adapted to their basaltic terroirs, offer an exceptional diversity of flavors and characters. Thanks to these indigenous grape varieties, Lazio's wine production stands out for its unique wines that combine tradition and authenticity. Here is an overview of the main red and white grape varieties cultivated in Lazio, available in our shop.
Red Grape Varieties
Colorino
Colorino is a dark red grape variety, appreciated for its "dyeing" role in blends. It is distinguished by its intense aromas of blueberry, blackberry, peony, and balsamic notes. Its thick skin, rich in anthocyanins, gives the beverages a deep color, while balancing lighter grape varieties with its powerful tannins. Often used in addition to Sangiovese, it brings a vibrant and harmonious touch.
Montepulciano
Although often associated with Abruzzo, Montepulciano also finds its place in Lazio. This red grape variety offers structured red wines with aromas of ripe black fruits and spicy notes. Montepulciano is ideal for enhancing the complexity and color of other grape varieties in blends.
Sangiovese
Sangiovese, nicknamed "Jupiter's blood," is a staple of Italian viticulture. Its red wines reveal aromas of cherry, plum, and dried herbs, often accompanied by vibrant acidity and supple tannins. In Lazio, it is used to produce elegant reds, sometimes as a single varietal or in blends.
White Grape Varieties
Grechetto
Among the white grape varieties, Grechetto is another jewel of Lazio. Originally from Greece, Grechetto is now recognized for its full-bodied and expressive wines, with aromas of yellow fruits, nuts, and a mineral touch. Its robustness positions it as a must-have for lovers of balanced whites.
Malvasia
Malvasia is a family of grape varieties offering great diversity. In Lazio, the Malvasia grape variety produces aromatic Italian white wines with floral and fruity notes, sometimes used to make sweet or fortified wines. This Malvasia grape variety is ideal for those seeking complex flavors and a beautiful roundness on the palate.
Moscato
Moscato, known for its enchanting aromas of flowers and tropical fruits, is highly appreciated in Lazio. Whether vinified as sparkling or sweet, it seduces with its natural sweetness and freshness.
Procanico
A noble variant of Trebbiano Toscano, Procanico is distinguished by its finesse. It is known for producing elegant Italian white wines, with subtle aromas of citrus, white flowers, and beautiful acidity. This emblematic grape variety of Lazio is perfect for light and refreshing wines.
A Uniqueness to Appreciate
Lazio's indigenous grape varieties reflect the authenticity and richness of this little-known wine region. Their diversity allows for the production of wines suitable for all occasions, whether intense reds or aromatic whites. Each bottle is an invitation to discover and better understand a unique terroir, shaped by volcanoes and the passion of winemakers.
In our shop, find these grape varieties and let yourself be seduced by their nuances and inimitable character. Discover natural and expressive wines that capture the very essence of this fascinating region.
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38 products
38 products
Rosso 2012
Le Coste
This generous Italian red is made from a blend composed primarily of Grechetto (a local variety related to Sangiovese), with the secondary grape varieties being Cannaiolo, Colorino, Ciliegiolo, and Vaiano, indigenous varieties planted in the vineyards on the volcanic soils of the Le Coste estate. Fermentation lasts about a month in French oak and chestnut vats. Rosso is then aged in Slovenian oak barrels. At first glance, a beautiful ruby color, a crisp and juicy palate, with notes of red and black fruits.
Natural wine with no added sulfites.
Unatantum Liquoreux Red Still 2009
This sweet red is 100% aleatico, grown on the volcanic soils of the Azienda Le Coste estate. The grapes are air-dried for a month, hung in whole bunches from wires, and the wine is slowly fermented for three years. This produces a wine that is sweet without being syrupy, and wonderfully complex.
Natural wine with no added sulfites.
Le Vigne Piu Vecchie White 2010
A great deal of wisdom goes into this 100% Procanico Italian white wine, produced from vines around sixty years old. A precious plot, located on the volcanic soils of the Le Coste estate, to which it owes its name: the vigne più vecchie, literally "the oldest vines." After direct pressing and a short maceration, this cuvée is aged for many months in 500-liter oak barrels before being bottled, where it will wait another thirty-six months. Despite its venerable age, one cannot help but be charmed by the beautiful minerality that it manages to retain in the mouth, and by its formidable balance.
Natural wine without added sulfites.
Vino Rosso Red 2018,
Corva Gialla
Vino Rosso, simply named, can be considered the emblematic red of Azienda Corva Gialla. Red fruits, freshness, mineral and earthy notes, tertiary aromas, spices, and tobacco: this is how we can summarize the profile of this 100% Sangiovese with the Vino da Tavola (table wine) designation. With a few years of bottle age, this 2018 offers beautiful notes of evolution and a pronounced but not excessive body. The richness, due to a high content of natural sugars during fermentation, and the polyphenolic maturity are remarkable, as well as the balance between velvety and tannicity, lightness and body, roundness and acidity. On the nose, notes of spices such as cinnamon, black pepper and fennel; on the palate, the wine is full-bodied and red fruits dominate: ripe cherry, raspberry and strawberry. Black fruits and plum are not left out, and delicious aromas of dried fruits (prune, fig) combine with spices on the finish. Vino Rosso is a classic Sangiovese from old and newer vines planted at 450 meters above sea level on a west-facing plot with volcanic soils. The harvest is destemmed. A starter culture is made from a small proportion of grapes, while the rest is directly pressed and added directly to the starter culture. The wine rests in fiberglass vats until bottling in March.
Find out more
Azienda Corva Gialla ("yellow crow") is a wine estate in Lazio, Italy, located on the edge of Umbria in the Alta Tuscia Viterbese. A volcanic region considered one of the most beautiful in Italy and characterized by its calanches, tall tuff rock formations delineating deep valleys carved by numerous rivers and streams. Corva Gialla is located in Lubriano, opposite Cività di Bagnoregio. Alta Tuscia is a breeding ground for young winemaking talents dedicated to nature who are enhancing these historically neglected lands. Founded in 2017, the estate has four hectares cultivated by Beatrice Arweiler, originally from another wine-growing region, between the Rhine and the Moselle. The new owner also planted an olive grove (Frantoio and Leccino varieties) and developed the estate for mixed farming and livestock production. The vines were planted with the help of Gian Marco Antonuzzi of the Le Coste estate. The friable volcanic soil lends itself beautifully to viticulture and the planting of grape varieties such as Grechetto d'Umbria, Trebbiano, Vermentino, Sangiovese, and Ciliegiolo. The estate's wines are quintessentially Italian, meaning they are crafted primarily for enjoyment. They are straightforward, deep, and easy to drink, expressing the strong minerality of their soils.
Vino Rosato Rosé 2021,
Corva Gialla
The pretty light pink color of this Vino Rosato heralds the pleasure of floral notes on the nose and palate: rose, red fruits, citrus, lovely acidity, and a touch of bitterness on the finish, reminiscent of grapefruit peel, which gives it great charm. To obtain this Rosato, a blend of Montepulciano and Sangiovese, the Montepulciano harvest macerates for 48 hours on the skins before being pressed, while the Sangiovese is pressed directly at the entrance to the winery. The musts are then fermented together in fiberglass vats where they continue to refine until bottling in March. Rosato will suit everything you want from a rosé, and more: its purity and balance raise it above the standard image of summer rosés.
Find out more
Azienda Corva Gialla ("yellow crow") is a winery in Lazio, Italy, located on the edge of Umbria in the Alta Tuscia Viterbese. A volcanic region considered one of the most beautiful in Italy and characterized by its calanches, tall tuff rock formations delineating deep valleys carved by numerous streams and torrents. Corva Gialla is located in Lubriano, opposite Civita di Bagnoregio. Alta Tuscia is proving to be a breeding ground for young winemaking talents devoted to nature who are enhancing these lands deprived throughout history. Founded in 2017, the estate comprises four hectares cultivated by Beatrice Arweiler, originally from another wine-growing region, between the Rhine and the Moselle. The new owner also planted an olive grove (Frantoio and Leccino varieties) and developed the estate into a mixed crop and livestock system. The vines were planted with the help of Gian Marco Antonuzzi of the Le Coste estate. The friable volcanic soil lends itself beautifully to viticulture and the planting of grape varieties such as Grechetto d'Umbria, Trebbiano, Vermentino, Sangiovese, and Ciliegiolo. The estate's wines are quintessentially Italian, meaning they are crafted primarily for enjoyment. They are straightforward, deep, and easy to drink, expressing the strong minerality of their soils.