~ The Roman Forum ~ Photo courtesy of Tim Heath ~
Roma inspires. There is nowhere more ancient, more storied. And from this lineage comes Frascati. Inextricably linked to Roma, Frascati has come to be known as the wine of popes and the people.
The DOC lies about 11 miles southeast of Roma, in the Alban hills surrounding the capitol. Tufo and limestone have a significant presence in the Albans and so good Frascati shows that character.
Fontana Candida is among the most prominent producers in the DOC. Their base wine is a field blend, which is typical of the region. Permitted grapes for the DOC are Malvasia di Candia, Malvasia del Lazio, Trebbiano, Greco, Bombino, and Bellone. Ancient grapes, many of which are virtually extinct.
~ Roma holds a very special place for me ~
The Wine of Popes and People
During the Renaissance, the town of Frascati became a favored retreat for Roman Popes and nobility who built lavish villas in the area. Historical records show that Frascati was regularly served at Papal courts and banquets. As a result, it became a staple in ecclesiastical circles and earned the title “the wine of Popes.”
Similarly, because of it’s affordable price and versatility with food, especially the Roman classics Cacio e Pepe and Carbonara, it’s also called the wine of the people. Legend says that when new Popes are inaugurated, Frascati flows from the fountains in Rome!
~ The Oculus of the Pantheon ~
Fontana Candida’s Frascati is a field blend of the grapes mentioned above. However, the great majority is Malvasia di Candia, Trebbiano Toscano and Malvasia del Lazio.
The 2024 Frascati is pale gold in color. The wine is very aromatic with notes of peach, lemon grass and flinty minerals being notable. On the palate, the wine’s acidity is crisp and refreshing. The limestone minerality is very interesting and backs the bright citrus fruit tones very well. Hints of sweet peach notes come through and this finishes clean and mouth watering. There is nothing not to like here, especially if you can find this wine under $10. I paid $12 and will happily get more for summer sipping. 87 points. Find this wine.
~ A lovely, crisp white and a great value ~
I don’t think you’ll find a better apperitivo for patio sipping. Salute!
