Cesanese del Piglio seems to be living up to its reputation as the "king of wines", which it was named by Popes Innocenzo III and Bonifacio VIII in the Middle Ages. Iin 2008 it was granted full DOCG status. Located in central Italy's Lazio region, the wine-producing area covers the communes of Piglio, Serrone, Acuto, Anagni and Paliano.
The regulation includes two types of wine, Cesanese del Piglio and Cesanese del Piglio Superiore, which must be made from at least 90% Cesanese grapes (both Cesanese di Affile and Cesanese Commune are permitted). The remaining 10% can consist of any of the other permitted red grapes of Lazio. There is also an additional designation, riserva, for wines that have been barrel matured for more than 18 months. A small percentage of white grapes can also be added to help boost acidity levels and to enhance the aromas.
As well as producing superb secco wines that are renowned for their spicy and unique aromatic nature, velvety elegance, concentration and ability to age, there are also dolce and abboccato versions.
