Visit to wineries: Casale Marchese in Frascati & Team building

Close your eyes and let your mind wander to a verdant knoll, where the earth is draped in olive trees and vines, and an 18th-century villa stands sentinel on an age-old road.

But no, this is not the rolling hills of Tuscany, but a mere stone’s throw away from Rome, nestled in the heart of Vermicino. Step into the world of Casale Marchese, a family-owned farm that has stood the test of time.

Rome, the city of empires, exudes history from every nook and cranny, with its grand fountains, majestic palaces, and ancient ruins. It is a city that has inspired literature, music, and films for centuries. As the old adage goes, all roads lead to Rome, and indeed, it is the starting point for many of history’s great journeys. From the legendary Appian way to the regal Aurelia, the bustling Trionfale, the winding Cassia, and the storied Labicana, these ancient roads are the very fabric of the city’s rich past.

A winery on ancient Roman road

Imagine exploring an ancient Roman road that still hugs the Colosseum today and stumbling upon the Casale Marchese Winery! The very same road that connected Rome to Capua for centuries, winding through the Lepini Mountains, Ausoni, and Aurunci. Talk about stepping into history on the ancient Labicana way! Visitors will find themselves surrounded by archaeological relics right in the villa’s courtyard, discovered in the vineyards three centuries ago. And, if you keep your eyes peeled, you’ll spot some hilarious Roman toponymic legacies that will leave you grinning from ear to ear!

The history of the Casale Marchese

The estate can be traced back to the 14th century when it was owned by the influential Annibaldi family, who benefited from close ties with several popes of their time. Despite their prominence, they never ascended to the papal throne, but their power and influence were undeniable. At the height of their prosperity, they held sway over not only entire villages in the Castelli Romani and Frusinate regions but also the Torre delle Milizie and the Colosseum in Rome.
Today, the estate is under the ownership of the Carletti Family, who acquired the property in the 1800s and named it “Il Marchese.” The family resides in one wing of the Casale, while the other is dedicated to production. This unique arrangement illustrates the importance of winemaking in the family’s life and heritage.

A 18th-century villa amid olive trees and vines

Picture yourself on the terrace of a swanky private estate, gazing out at the magnificent sprawl of Rome and its jaw-dropping landmarks. You might catch a glimpse of St. Peter’s Dome in some days. As well as the infamous Vela, a symbol of both corruption and decay. The Estate proudly stands guard over the natural beauty of the area like a superhero, protecting the vineyards from the unstoppable city. Without the vintners of Frascati, the City would have already swallowed up the hills and plains. That’s where wine comes in, saving the day and our taste buds!

Casale Marchese wines

The winery produces 6 wine labels: four whites, one of which is sweet, and two reds. One grappa and one extra virgin olive oil. After visiting the production facility, which is very small in size, commensurate with the production that is a small production of quality. We are in the heart of Frascati Superiore DOCG from Malvasia del Lazio, Trebbiano, Bombino and Bellone grapes.

White wines

Tantalizing aroma of juicy tropical fruit with a hint of herbaceous notes, culminating in a rich, enveloping taste. The Frascati Superiore DOCG Casale Marchese is the perfect companion for aperitifs, cacio e pepe, and goat cheese.

But wait, there’s more! Quarto Marchese di Frascati Superiore DOCG is produced from the finest old vineyards, delivering an intense aroma that’s sure to make your taste buds dance. The tropical notes are still present, but now mingle with crisp, fresh scents of apple and grapefruit. Aged to perfection, this wine only gets better with time, offering beautiful sensations in every sip. It’s the perfect pairing for fish dishes, as well as classic Roman pastas like carbonara, gricia, and cacio e pepe. Cheers to that!

The Clemens, on the other hand, is a white wine from Malvasia del Lazio and Chardonnay. A blend that, as easy to imagine, combines the unique and aromatic kit of Malvasia del Lazio with the strength and body that Chardonnay gives. This wine pairs well with fish soups and white meats.

Casale Marchese’s Cannellino di Frascati is a real treat. It is a wine with a very ancient history, made from Malvasia del Lazio and Trebbiano grapes. Firstly, it is a natural sweet wine that can be enjoyed on its own or with the whole meal. In fact, it is a moderate sweetness, able to marry savory and sweet, and of course sour dishes. Which makes it an ally for difficult pairings, such as some vegetables – carciofo alla Giudia for example – or some cheeses.

Red Wines

Red wines are based on Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cesanese, Montepulciano such as Rosso Eminenza. Label that immediately makes us think of cardinal purple, as does the color of this wine. Which is intense, fruity of red fruits, strawberry and plum, coffee and light spices. The tannin can be felt but is quite soft. Inviting pairing with cured meats and cheeses, bucatini all’amatriciana.

The estate’s Bordeaux style wine is called Marchese de’ Cavalieri because it is named after a specific cru. Here it goes more on the aromas of morello cherry and underbrush, and the spicy flavors typical of barrel aging. This wine may surprise lovers of Bordeaux reds and of pairing with aged cheeses even game.

A special note goes to the extra virgin olive oil from olives grown, harvested, and pressed all on the estate. We spent an amzing day in our annual Team Building for Gourmetaly‘s staff.

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