At a glance

Producer

Cinder Fen

Region

Lazio, Italy

Grape variety

Cesanese

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$20-$30

Tasting profile

Red cherry fruits, dried herbs, earth, moderate spice, hints of leather and graphite emerging

Evolution: Fruit will soften; earthiness and savory notes will deepen with tertiary aromas

At peak: Complex integration of fruit, earth, and subtle oak with smooth tannins

Structure

Acidity

Medium-High

Tannins

Medium

Alcohol

13.5%

Aging potential

8-12 years from vintage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2020 to 2026

Optimal window

2018 to 2028

Current status

Approaching optimal drinkability with some evolution of tertiary notes

Current condition

Drinking well with notable earthiness, mellow tannins, and moderate acidity

Cesanese from Lazio typically shows medium tannins and notable acidity allowing 8-12 years of aging. The 2014 vintage offers good structure and balanced acidity, with cellar life approaching mid-2020s. This time frame aligns with traditional aging curves for quality Cesanese from established producers in Lazio.

Food pairing

Pairs well with roasted pork, grilled vegetables, mushroom risotto, aged cheeses such as Pecorino Romano.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (30-45 minutes) — To allow medium tannins and earthy aromas to open and soften

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 5/10

Producers in Lazio often use traditional viticulture with some organic practices but no official biodynamic or organic certification noted for Cinder Fen

While no formal sustainability certifications exist for this wine, the local sourcing of grapes and traditional methods typical of Lazio producers contribute to moderate environmental stewardship. Packaging is standard glass bottles with cork closures. Energy usage and water conservation practices are typical for mid-sized Italian estates with ongoing efforts towards incremental improvements.