Cesanese di Affile is a native grape variety of Lazio, historically linked to the hills of the upper Aniene Valley and the slopes of the Affilani Mountains. Its cultivation dates back to Roman times and is consistently documented in medieval agricultural contracts, 17th-century records and 19th-century descriptions of Affile’s renowned red wines. The name ‘Cesanese’ is traditionally attributed to the deforested land set aside for viticulture. From an ampelographic perspective, it has medium-sized leaves, generally pentagonal in shape and ranging from trilobed to pentalobed; the bunch is medium-sized, compact, cylindrical or conical, whilst the berry is small or medium, ovoid or obovoid, with an intensely pruinose blue-black skin. The main growing area comprises the municipalities of Affile and Roiate and part of Arcinazzo Romano, with vineyards on hillsides and in mountainous terrain situated at altitudes of approximately 350 to 950 metres; the grape variety is also found in other Lazio appellations, including Cesanese del Piglio and Cesanese di Olevano Romano. The wine displays a ruby-red colour with violet hues, floral and fruity aromas of berries, stone fruits and cherry, sometimes accompanied by spicy notes. On the palate, it is dry, harmonious, smooth and well-structured, with well-integrated tannins and good ageing potential. The appellation also produces sweet and Riserva versions, the latter being suitable for prolonged ageing.
