Cesanese Comune is a distinctive red grape variety native to central Italy, particularly the Lazio region surrounding Rome. This grape is noted for its medium to deep ruby color and produces wines with a fragrant aromatic profile, featuring blackberry, ripe cherry, dried herbs, violet, and subtle spicy undertones like black pepper and clove. On the palate, Cesanese Comune wines typically reveal a medium body, moderate acidity, and fine-grained tannins, balancing ripe fruit flavors with earthy nuances and occasional hints of rustic minerality.
Principal growing areas for Cesanese Comune include the provinces of Frosinone and Rome, most notably within the Cesanese del Piglio and Cesanese di Affile DOCs. These regions benefit from a combination of volcanic soils and hilly terrain, imparting freshness and character to the wines.
Cesanese Comune is most commonly vinified as a dry red wine, although slightly sparkling (frizzante) and semi-sweet versions also exist. Typical styles range from youthful and fruity to more structured, age-worthy expressions with increased complexity.
For food pairings, Cesanese Comune complements traditional Roman cuisine exceptionally well: try it with roasted lamb, porchetta, cured meats, mushroom risotto, or mature pecorino cheese. Its versatility makes it an excellent choice for Mediterranean-inspired dishes and hearty fare.
