Province of Rome
Established: 2001
Owner: Ciolli family
Winemaker: Damiano Ciolli
Production: 16,000 bottles
Hectares under vine: 6
Viticulture: Sustainable
There are two distinct types of Cesanese in Lazio. Cesanese Comune is the more widely grown work horse variety that supplies much of Rome’s vino della casa. The more superior Cesanese d’Affile, also known as Cesanese del Piglio, is a distinct sub-variety regarded by many as the Pinot Noir of central Italy.
Damiano’s first task was to renovate the vineyards and, together with Agronomist/Enologist Guido Busatto, he is now producing a couple of truly authentic wines full of complexity, intensity and freshness. The vineyards, some more than 50 years old, are planted on steep hillsides of volcanic origin.
Silene, from vines planted in the 1980s, is aged in both stainless steel and concrete to preserve the fresh, vibrant fruit of Cesanese: think perfumed red berry fruit and dried roses, the palate adding notes of earth, wild herbs and aromatic spice. An original, charming and complex wine that will make you think twice about Cesanese.
Cirsium, from the oldest low yielding vines planted in 1953, is aged twelve months in old barrels followed by extended bottle age. Cirsium shows concentrated cherry liqueur fruit with dried roses, the palate full and rich with silky tannins and great balance.
