Casale del Giglio: Pioneering Agro Pontino Wines
Antonio Santarelli transformed Casale del Giglio, his family's Agro Pontino estate (50km south of Rome), from a weekend escape into a winemaking revolution. Recognizing the region's untapped potential, he launched a 1985 research project planting 60 experimental vines. This unique opportunity led to a revolutionary 1985 research project, attracting leading ampelographers and university experts. They planted nearly 60 experimental vines, transforming the region's landscape and establishing Casale del Giglio as a pioneer in exploring new Italian wine terroirs.
This audacious venture yielded remarkable results with Syrah, Petit Verdot, Sauvignon, Viognier, and Petit Manseng. These varietals now produce exceptional monovarietal and blended wines, including the flagship Mater Matuta (Syrah/Petit Verdot), known for its rich, full-bodied profile. Aphrodisium, a late-harvest blend of Petit Manseng, Viognier, Greco, and Fiano, offers a luscious sweet wine experience.
Casale del Giglio continues to innovate with the addition of a Biancolella from Ponza and a Tempranillo, expanding their impressive range of white and red wines.