Wines Lazio San Giovenale - Habemus - 2023

Viniou Reviews

San Giovenale's Cuvée Habemus 2023 is a red wine that exemplifies the contemporary face of Lazio winemaking. This cuvée is a blend, but the precise grape varieties can vary each year; typically, you might expect a combination of international classics such as Syrah, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, or Grenache, in varying proportions, depending on the vintage. The 2023 vintage stands out for its youthful vibrancy, displaying deep, intense ruby hues in the glass. The vinification at San Giovenale is handled with meticulous attention, with hand-harvested fruit and careful selection, followed by fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel or concrete, and then a period of maturation, often in fine French oak. This careful approach yields a deeply expressive, modern wine—rich in dark fruit, hints of Mediterranean herbs, delicate spice, and a supple tannic structure.

Lazio, surrounding the city of Rome, is a region steeped in winemaking tradition, yet it has long lived in the shadow of its more famous neighbours. The soils here, enriched by historical volcanic activity, offer an exceptional substratum for viticulture, bringing a distinctive mineral focus to the wines. The Mediterranean climate—with its hot, dry summers moderated by sea breezes—provides ideal conditions for ripening rich, robust red grapes. Over recent decades, pioneering producers like San Giovenale have championed low yields, sustainable agriculture, and international varieties, rejuvenating the region's reputation.

For food pairings, Cuvée Habemus 2023’s roundness, ripe dark fruit, and spicy undertones recommend robust dishes. Succulent lamb roasted with rosemary, aged Pecorino Romano cheeses, or a rich Roman classic like saltimbocca alla romana all make splendid companions. The wine also stands up well to game or grilled beef, while its supple texture harmonises with roasted root vegetables or wild mushroom risotto.

Serve this wine at a temperate 16-18°C. Decanting for up to an hour will allow the aromatic complexity to unfurl and soften the tannins. Enjoy now for its youthful energy or allow it a few years in the cellar to develop further elegance.