Historical Background

Matidia, who held the esteemed title of “Augusta,” was a prominent figure in Rome’s Antonine dynasty. She was the niece of Emperor Trajan and the mother-in-law of Emperor Hadrian. Following her death in AD 119, Hadrian delivered her funeral oration and proclaimed her a deity. Statues of Matidia were erected across the Roman Empire, coins with her effigy were minted, and a temple was dedicated to her in the Campo Marzio area of Rome.

Traces of this ancient temple have been discovered near the Church of Santa Maria in Aquiro at Piazza Capranica—a historic site also significant to the Santarelli family, who began their wine merchant career in this area over a century ago.

Grape Varieties and Vinification Technique

The grapes used are harvested from early autumn to mid-October. The vinification process involves:

• A cold maceration period lasting 6 to 7 days at 8°C.
• Alcoholic fermentation that spans three weeks, conducted at a controlled temperature with repeated punching down.
• After racking, part of the wine is aged in stainless steel vats, while another portion is aged in oak tonneaux (400-litre casks) for approximately 12 months.

This wine is made with 100% Cesanese grapes from a 30-year-old vineyard near Olevano Romano. The vineyard employs spur-cordon training and is situated at 500 metres above sea level on volcanic limestone soil, facing east.

Tasting Notes

The wine has a deep ruby-red hue with aromas of marasca cherry and a delicate spiciness. On the palate, it is fresh and refined with flawless tannins, balancing ripe fruit notes with a richly textured mouthfeel. The wine achieves a harmonious fusion of elegance and longevity, finishing with a long mineral note and a subtle hint of the sea. It is well-suited for extended bottle aging.

Suggested Food Pairing

The wine pairs beautifully with “Gnocchi Ricci di Amatrice” served in a mutton and pork rib sauce.