In the Shadow of Rome's Aurelius - Tomei Cesanese Lazio IGT

2022 Azienda Tomei Cesanese "Veniero" IGT Lazio 

Demeter-Certified Biodynamic  AB Organic 

Cesanese is a grape variety used to make red wine in Italy's Lazio wine region. It is used mostly in the production of still red wines with bright fruit characters and some earthy overtones, and is considered by many to be one of Lazio's most interesting grape varieties. 

Marco Tomei's Cesanese is a testament to the heights a terroir-driven take on the grape can reach – the Roman red par excellence, it’s often treated just as fodder for trattoria plonk. From marine-sediment rich and volcanic soils, the ‘Veniero’ is lighter in color, has a pronounced mineral-driven backbone, and much less density than usual. As such, this wine is refined and pretty darn gorgeous, a pure pleasure to drink. Hints of graphite and red fruit dominate a dynamic nose, in particular cherry, red currant, and raspberry, a shake of black pepper and thyme. Such rollicking aromatics are complemented by a finessed, and perfectly approachable, palate: juicy, mineral, and savory, with zippy acidity and just-right light tannins. 4000 bottles produced.