Cesanese di Affile

"Cesanese di Affile" or "Affile", is a Protected Designation of Origin that protects three types of wines: the basic version, the sweet and the Riserva.

Grapes

All types of wine belonging to this denomination are produced mainly from Cesanese di Affile grapes (not less than 90% of the total), with which other red grapes, suitable for cultivation in Lazio, can compete.

Physicochemical and Organoleptic properties

Cesanese di Affile (minimum total alcoholic strength by volume 12.5% vol.) has a pleasant ruby red color, embellished with violet reflections. The smell it emanates is characteristic and delicate, accompanied by a dry, soft and harmonious taste. In the Dolce variant (9% vol.), the red shade becomes more lively and the reflections become purple. The aroma remains characteristic and delicate, while the taste becomes sweeter, more harmonious and characteristic. Finally, the Riserva (13% vol.) is ruby red and tends towards garnet with ageing. The palate is dry, harmonious and velvety, while the scent is intense and persistent.

Grape production area

The production area is located in central-eastern Lazio, in the province of Rome. An area of high hill that develops at the foot of the Monti Affilani, characterized by a temperate climate, with very heavy annual rainfall.

Specificity and historical notes

The fame and consideration that Cesanese di Affile has always enjoyed have been known for many centuries. In 1600, the scholar Rutilio Scotti praised its goodness and even its medicinal properties. In the 18th century, on the other hand, the Municipal Statute of Affile established very severe penalties for damage to vineyards.