Costa Etrusco Romana

The Protected Geographical Indication "Costa Etrusco Romana" includes the types of white and red wine, as well as the monovarietal Fiano, Malvasia Puntinata, Vermentino, Chardonnay, San Giovese, Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon.

Grapes

The white "Costa Etrusco Romana" PGI wines must be obtained from two main varieties: Malvasia puntinata and/or Vermentino, at a minimum of 60%, with the presence of one or other grape variety not less than 25% (Fiano and Chardonnay maximum 25%). Reds, on the other hand, must include a minimum of 60% of the Montepulciano and/or Sangiovese grape variety, with the presence of one or the other grape variety not inferior to 25% (maximum Merlot 25%). The specification of the vine is reserved for wines obtained from at least 85% of the grapes coming from the following vine varieties: Fiano, Malvasia Puntinata, Vermentino, Chardonnay, Sangiovese, Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon. Grapes from other grape varieties of similar colour may be used, suitable for cultivation in the Lazio Region, up to a maximum of 15%.

Physicochemical and Organoleptic properties

The white "Costa Etrusco Romana" PGI wines have a yellow colour, sometimes tending towards golden or greenish, accompanied by an intense, fruity perfume and a taste that ranges from dry to sweet, typical, savoury and sometimes lively. The minimum total alcoholic strength by volume is 11.50% vol. The red variety, on the other hand, is characterised by a more or less intense ruby red colour, tending towards garnet with ageing, with a complex, fruity aroma and a flavour that ranges from dry to sweet, harmonious, typical and sometimes lively. In this case, the minimum alcohol content is 12.00% vol. The parameters may vary depending on the grape variety used.

Grape production area

The production area consists of the Lazio coast and the hills located between the mouth of the river Tiber and the mountains of Tolfa.

Specificity and historical notes

The roots of vine cultivation in Lazio date back to the Etruscans, who, thanks to their high technological level and extensive commercial relations, developed cutting-edge techniques for the time. The wine of Ceretano is mentioned several times in the works of the Latin georgists: both Marziale and Columella praise the exquisite wine of the ancient "Cere".