It may seem strange that an international grape such as Cabernet has become famous in Val Comino, in the southern part of the Lazio region, but the cultivation of this grape has now a long history.
It all began in the 19th century when phylloxera destroyed vineyards throughout Europe and a mayor of Atina, who was also an oenologist, began to travel between France and Italy.
From France, Pasquale Visocchi brings back several vines including cabernet which immediately settles perfectly in the micro climate of the Val di Comino.
Pasquale Visocchi also introduces the green manure technique and the cultivation of legumes among the rows of vines (which will then bring recognition to the famous Cannellino di Atina PDO bean).
In reality, the production of wine in the area dates back to Roman times and was later favored by the small monasteries scattered throughout the area that spread agriculture and viticulture.
In 1999 a group of winemakers obtained recognition for the wines of Val Comino with Atina DOC and Cabernet di Atina DOC.
Today they are produced in the Atina Rosso Riserva, Cabernet Riserva and Semillon versions.
Cabernet Atina DOC wine must contain at least 85% of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc grapes while the other 15% can be black berried grapes grown in Lazio.
Atina DOC wine must instead contain at least 50% of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes and the rest of Merlot, Syrah and Cabernet Franc and up to 20% of other black berried grapes grown in Lazio.
Follow us