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What is Cesanese di Olevano Romano DOC?
Tucked into the foothills of the Apennines just southeast of Rome, Cesanese di Olevano Romano DOC is one of Lazio’s most evocative red wines. Crafted primarily from the ancient Cesanese grape, this appellation is beloved for its silky texture, fragrant aromatics, and cultural link to the Eternal City. For wine travelers and collectors alike, Olevano Romano offers a taste of Lazio’s authentic vinous heritage—less tourist-trodden than Tuscany but no less captivating.
History and Origins
The Cesanese grape has deep Roman roots, believed to have been cultivated since antiquity. Olevano Romano itself was granted DOC status in 1973, recognizing centuries of small-scale hillside viticulture. Historically considered a “wine of the people” around Rome, Cesanese wines have recently undergone a revival, as producers focus on quality-driven farming and careful cellar work, elevating the grape from rustic to refined.
Where It’s Made: Geography & Terroir
Olevano Romano lies in the Monti Ernici range of southern Lazio, about 50 km from Rome. Vineyards climb steep volcanic and limestone soils at 300–600 meters above sea level, benefitting from cool mountain breezes and dramatic diurnal shifts. This terroir tempers the Mediterranean warmth, producing wines with both ripeness and freshness—a balance that gives Cesanese di Olevano Romano its trademark elegance.
(Insert map: Olevano Romano DOC zone with proximity to Rome)
The Grape: Cesanese
The DOC requires wines to be made with at least 85% Cesanese (often Cesanese Comune or Cesanese d’Affile clones). The grape is known for:
- Thin skins → soft tannins, approachable texture
- Perfumed aromatics → violet, wild herbs, sour cherry
- Naturally high acidity → food-friendly balance
Winemaking & DOC Regulations
Cesanese di Olevano Romano DOC is produced in several styles:
- Rosso (Secco/Dry): Fresh, aromatic, everyday drinking wines (min. 11% ABV)
- Superiore: Higher alcohol, longer aging, more structure (min. 12% ABV)
- Riserva: Aged at least 2 years (including 6 months in bottle), showcasing depth and aging potential
- Dolce (Sweet): A rare passito-style made from dried grapes
Key Facts at a Glance
| Style | ABV | Aging Requirement | Flavor Profile | Avg. Price |
| Rosso Secco | 11–12% | Minimal | Cherry, violet, herbs | €10–15 |
| Superiore | 12–13% | Longer aging | Spiced red fruits, body | €15–25 |
| Riserva | 12.5%+ | 24 months (6 in bottle) | Complex, earthy, age-worthy | €25–40 |
| Dolce Passito | 12%+ | Varies | Dried cherry, cocoa, fig | €20–30 |
Tasting Notes
A glass of Cesanese di Olevano Romano typically offers:
- Appearance: Ruby red with garnet hues in aged examples
- Aromas: Red cherry, violet, licorice, wild herbs, subtle spice
- Palate: Medium body, silky tannins, refreshing acidity, gentle bitterness on the finish
- Style: Between playful and contemplative—equally at home on a Roman trattoria table or in a serious cellar tasting
Serving & Pairing
Best served slightly below room temperature (16–18°C) in medium-sized glasses.
Pairings include:
- Traditional: Porchetta, Amatriciana, cacio e pepe
- Modern: Lamb chops, roasted vegetables, charcuterie boards
- Sweet styles: Hazelnut biscotti, dark chocolate desserts
(Internal link opportunity: Pair with Roman pasta wine guide, Lazio wine travel itineraries, Italian wine and cheese pairings)
Where to Buy & Pricing
Cesanese di Olevano Romano DOC is increasingly available outside Italy. Look for top producers via:
- Wine-Searcher listings
- Specialty importers of Lazio wines
- Rome-area enotecas for local bottles starting around €10–15
(Internal link opportunity: Guide to buying Italian wines online)
FAQ on Cesanese di Olevano Romano DOC
- Is Cesanese di Olevano Romano related to Cesanese del Piglio and Cesanese di Affile?
Yes—these are the three main Cesanese appellations in Lazio, each with its own terroir expression. - Is this wine age-worthy?
Riserva versions can evolve beautifully for 8–12 years. - What makes it unique?
Its dual personality: aromatic like Nebbiolo, yet silky and approachable like Pinot Noir.
Fun Facts & Cultural Notes
- Olevano Romano is a charming medieval town that has inspired painters and poets since the 19th century.
- Cesanese wines are considered the “true Roman red,” historically favored by the capital’s aristocracy and trattoria owners alike.
- The DOC’s revival is part of Lazio’s broader wine renaissance, reclaiming identity after decades of being overshadowed by neighboring Tuscany.
Producer Spotlights
- Casale della Ioria – One of the key estates championing quality Cesanese
- Poggio alla Meta – Known for structured, age-worthy expressions
- Proietti – Family winery producing authentic, terroir-driven wines
Experience Lazio in Your Glass
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If you are in the mood for a good book, you can try:
– The Modern History of Italian Wine by Walter Filipputti
– Hidden Gems of Italy: An Insider’s Secret Formula To Find Top-Class Italian Wines At Value Prices And Taste La Dolce Vita by Tony Margiotta
Additionally, you can discover the other wines from Lazio.
