From Italy’s Lazio/Latium Region near Rome come two smooth old-world style wines from Castello di Cesare (Kas-tello dee Chesare) meaning “Caesar’s Castle.” The Red (Rosso Lazio) is a 50/50 blend of Cabernet and Merlot made from hand-harvested grapes and produced in stainless steel. Fruity, medium-bodied with notes of light cherries and berries. Low tannins. Grapes come from the Castelli Romani appellation. The white (Bianco Lazio) is a blend of 70 percent Malvasia and 30 percent Trebbiano and is delightfully crisp and fruity with pronounced tropical fruits, apple and pear notes. Both are 2007 (MMVII) vintage. Non-Mevushal. Under the Strict Orthodox supervision of Rav Umberto Avraham Piperno in accordance with the Chief Rabbinate of Rome and the Chief Rabbinate of Israel. Available mid-August.
The red is perfect with pasta, sauteed veal and poultry dishes. This wine will not overwhelm food but work as a condiment with it. A great warm-weather red. The white is wonderful outdoors at sunset with grilled fish and poultry, salads and finger foods.
The grapes for Castello di Cesare are grown at an altitude of 350 meters at the Zagarolo Wine Estate and are always hand harvested. The estate’s production philosophy emphasizes respect for the environment and the use of products that are part of the owners’ independent organic methods. The winery is also home to the International Academy of Kosher Wine Production, affiliated with Touro College’s overseas Italian program.
