Dear wine enthusiasts,
Welcome to the first edition of our newsletter FALLING IN WINE, dedicated to
spreading the word about the wonderful wine region of Lazio. While Lazio may
be gaining increasing recognition for its wine production, it remains
relatively unknown to the world. That’s why we’re here to shed light on this
hidden gem.
In this inaugural issue, we will be focusing on the viticultural landscape
of Lazio and the unique terroir of the Castelli Romani area, located just
outside of Rome. Additionally, we are thrilled to introduce you to one of
the region’s most innovative and dynamic wineries, Tenuta San Leo.
Main characteristic of Lazio Region
The region of Lazio is located in central Italy and has a diverse and
captivating geographical makeup. It is bordered by the Tyrrhenian Sea to the
west, which offers stunning coastal landscapes and beautiful sandy beaches.
Moving inland, the region is characterized by rolling hills, fertile plains,
and picturesque valleys. Tha main city of this region is Rome.
Lazio is home to several mountain ranges, including the Apennines, which run
through the eastern part of the region. These mountains provide a stunning
backdrop and offer opportunities for hiking, skiing, and enjoying
breathtaking views.
One of the most notable geographical features of Lazio is the presence of
volcanic activity. The region is home to volcanic lakes, such as Lake
Bolsena and Lake Bracciano, which were formed by ancient volcanic eruptions.
Additionally, the Castelli Romani area is situated on the dormant volcano of
Ariccia, adding a unique element to the region’s terroir.
The Tiber River, one of Italy’s most important rivers, flows through Lazio,
dividing the region into two parts. This river has played a significant role
in the region’s history and continues to be an important waterway.
Overall, the geographical diversity of Lazio contributes to its rich
agricultural landscape and makes it a captivating destination for nature
lovers and explorers alike. From the stunning coastline to the majestic
mountains, Lazio offers a wealth of natural beauty to be discovered.
Main characteristic of Castelli Romani terroir
The Castelli Romani region has a unique geographical configuration and
favorable pedoclimatic conditions. The area is characterized by a series of
volcanic hills, known as the Alban Hills, formed by ancient volcanic
activity.
The volcanic soil of the Castelli Romani region is rich in minerals and
nutrients, making it highly fertile and ideal for agriculture. The
combination of fertile soil, favorable climate, and altitude creates
excellent conditions for the cultivation of vineyards, olive groves, and
various other crops.
The region experiences a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot
summers. The proximity to the Tyrrhenian Sea moderates the temperatures and
provides a cooling effect, creating a favorable environment for grape
cultivation. The temperature variations between day and night also
contribute to the development of complex flavors and aromas in the local
wines.
The Castelli Romani region is known for its production of high-quality
wines, including the DOC Roma wine. The volcanic soil, along with the
climatic conditions, imparts unique characteristics to the wines, making
them distinct and highly regarded.
In addition to viticulture, the region is also known for its production of
traditional agricultural products, such as olive oil, fruits, and
vegetables. The fertile soil and favorable climate contribute to the growth
of these crops, resulting in high-quality and flavorful produce.
Overall, the geographical configuration and pedoclimatic conditions of the
Castelli Romani region make it an ideal location for agriculture,
particularly viticulture. The combination of volcanic soil, Mediterranean
climate, and altitude creates a unique and favorable environment that
contributes to the region’s agricultural productivity and the production of
exceptional wines and agricultural products.
Tenuta San Leo
Tenuta San Leo is a young property located in the heart of the Castelli
Romani region, specifically in Ariccia. The estate is dedicated to
cultivating both native and international grape varieties, and it prides
itself on practicing organic farming methods. With its commitment to organic
agriculture, San Leo Estate has obtained and maintains the organic operator
certification.
Spanning approximately 20 hectares, with around 10 hectares dedicated to
vineyards, San Leo Estate produces a diverse range of high-quality organic
wines. The vinification process takes place in the estate’s own winery,
ensuring full control over the production process and maintaining the
highest standards of quality.
The wine portfolio of San Leo Estate includes a variety of wines that cater
to the preferences of its discerning customers. These include the refreshing
and elegant IGT Lazio white, the vibrant and fruity IGT Lazio rosé, the rich
and complex IGT Lazio red, the distinctive and aromatic DOC Roma white, the
bold and structured DOC Roma red, and a delightful passito wine.
Tenuta San Leo’s dedication to organic farming and its meticulous approach
to winemaking result in wines of exceptional quality and character. The
estate’s wines are a true reflection of the unique terroir of the Castelli
Romani region, showcasing the flavors and aromas of the local grape
varieties.
Stay tuned for the upcoming newsletters, where San Leo Estate will provide
more detailed information about each of these wines. Whether you are a white
wine lover, a fan of rosé, or prefer the depth of red wines, San Leo Estate
has something to offer for everyone’s palate.
Cheers to discovering the wines of Lazio!
Giovanna Cunetta
www.tenutasanleo.it
@tenutasan leo
