Meet Lazio Winery, De Sanctis
Bold aromatics, sunny warmth, and bright, mouthwatering wines exude local flavor
I caught up with one of my long-time favorite wineries, De Sanctis, who produce some of the most aroma-packed white wines that truly taste like Rome and central Italy.
It’s no surprise they’re packed with Malvasia grapes, a versatile power player when it comes to floral notes, along with a host of others.
Who is De Sanctis?
We’re family operation now in our fourth generation. In 1816, Filippo De Sanctis left the land to his children. His grandchildren, Luigi and Daniela and their kids, Francesco e Andrea are currently run the business.
We have been farming organically from day one, and we’re committed to the health our soil and sustainability in the area.
We produce a small quantity of cold-pressed olive oil, but the main event is the wine. Frascati DOC and Frascati Superiore DOCG appellations made with local white varieties including Malvasia Puntinata, Malvasia di Candia, Bombino, Grechetto and Trebbiano Toscano.
We also make a rosé and a dry red wine with Cabernet Franc, the only international grape we work with.
Where is De Sanctis and how does place affect the wines?
Our farm is located in the Castelli Romani, the hill towns southeast of Rome. Sun-drenched with plenty of wind.
Our vineyards coat the basin of ancient Lake Regillo, which formed inside a long-dormant volcano.
The presence of the ancient lake led to rich volcanic soil under the vines, which is mineral-packed and very fertile. There’s also a water reserve about 80 meters deep below the surface.
This allows us to overcome periods of drought, which have become increasingly frequent with climate change.
The Essence of Land and Tradition
Our two Frascati Superiore DOCG wines are a true reflection local flavor.
Their aromatic profile is distinctive for this region. Abelos is made from 80% Malvasia Puntinata and 20% Bombino. 496 is 70% Malvasia di Candia and 30% Trebbiano Toscano).
Tell us more about the aromatics.
Both wines present floral notes, especially elderberry, as well as fruity notes of pear, apricot, and a bitter almond finish.
Abelos is more robust while still fresh and mouthwatering. 496 is a little lighter.
Learn more about wine while planning a trip abroad.
I offer virtual wine tastings and lessons via Zoom and Google Meet. Email me for more information.
If you’re Rome or Greece-bound, you might even catch me locally!