Lazio

In Lazio, the region of Rome, winemaking has ebbed and flowed over the centuries, but is currently enjoying a revival. As elsewhere, the Etruscans were the first to produce wine in this region, followed by the ancient Romans – the emergence of Rome as Imperial capital obviously providing significant impetus.

The hills in Lazio are of volcanic origin, as evidenced by its many circular lakes, which once were craters. Indigenous grape varieties are prevalent, including Malvasia di Candia and Trebbiano for white wines, and Cesanese, Montepulciano, Nero Buono and Sangiovese for reds.

But in the province of Viterbo, north of Rome and bordering Tuscany as well as Umbria, international grapes like Chardonnay, Grenache and Syrah are grown to a very high standard.