Cesanese di Affile is a distinguished red grape variety with its origins in the Lazio region of central Italy, particularly in the environs of Affile, near Rome. This grape produces wines acclaimed for their elegant aromatic profile, displaying enticing notes of ripe red berries, dark cherries, and subtle hints of wild herbs and violets. On the palate, Cesanese di Affile delivers well-structured, medium-bodied wines with velvety tannins and a characteristic freshness, often complemented by nuances of black pepper, sweet spice, and a delicate earthiness.
The primary winegrowing areas for this variety are found in the Aniene Valley and nearby territories within Lazio. Cesanese di Affile is typically crafted as a varietal wine, sometimes blended to increase complexity, and it is most celebrated in DOCG or DOC-level bottlings, especially Cesanese di Affile DOC and Cesanese del Piglio.
Wine styles range from youthful, fruit-driven examples suitable for early enjoyment to more structured, age-worthy expressions with greater depth. These versatile wines make an excellent pairing with traditional Roman and Lazio cuisine—think roasted lamb, rich pasta dishes with tomato or game sauces, mature cheeses, and savoury cured meats, where the wine's aromatic complexity and balanced acidity truly shine.
