Corte Dei Papi, Cesanese Del Piglio (Lazio, Italy) 2018

 From Italy’s Lazio region, this medium-bodied red wine made from Cesanese del Piglio grapes appeals first with its ruby-red color, medium body and herbaceous and cherry dominated aromas.  On the palate it delivers more hints of cherry and other ripe red and black fruits.  With nicely disciplined tannins and a satisfying finish it is a good partner for simple grilled meats and for tomato-based pasta dishes.  Although many of us associate Lazio, a region just outside Rome, with white wine, Corte Dei Papi is proof that reds can do well here also.  Lazio has been cultivating Cesanese grapes since the late 1700s.