Atina Wine Region

The town of Atina, which is an ancient settlement that was previously inhabited by Samnite tribes before being invaded by the Romans in the third century, is where the Atina wine region gets its name. Atina's producing area and producers are both constrained. These select few devoted winemakers utilize the terroir to create exceptional wines that are of the highest caliber. The two most common grape varieties in the area are Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, of which the regulator needs at least 85% in the Cabernet blend while permitting 15% of non-aromatic black grapes. Red, red reserve, Cabernet, Cabernet reserve, and Semillon wines are produced exclusively in this region.

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Where is the Atina wine region?

Atina wine region is a small wine-producing district in southeastern Lazio bordering the Molise region. This unique region lies in central Italy and was once known as Samnites before the Romans. The region encompasses 12 communes in the province of Frosinone including Alvito, Atina, Belmonte Castello, Casalattico, Casalvieri, Gallinaro, Picinisco, San Donato Val di Comino, Sant'Elia Fiumerapido, Settefrati, Vicalvi, and Villa Latina. The region covers the Apennine hills under the province of Frosinone.  

History of the Atina wine region

Atina has always been a prosperous country town which was mentioned in several documents from the middle ages. The region was conquered by the Romans who started viticulture and winemaking. After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the region was ruled by the Lombards and become a part of the Duchy of Benevento in 702 and remained part of Naples until 1860. The town of Atina was a part of Terra di Lavoro province but was later included in the Frosinone in 1929. The economy of the region peaked in the middle ages only to be destroyed in an unfortunate earthquake in 1349. The Cantelmo family is credited for rebuilding the city. The region was planted with vines in the early 19th century by Pasquale Visocchi who started the wine industry in the area. The wine region of Atina was established as DOC on 26th April 1999 comprising 43 hectares of vineyards. 

The terroir and geography of the Atina wine region

Agriculture has long been the main industry in the area because it has perfect growth conditions for agricultural items. The Atina wine region experiences hot, humid summers and moderate, chilly winters due to its humid subtropical climate. The tropical air coming from the Ligurian Sea is what causes the humidity. The old bounds of Atina are surrounded by alluvial marls, which red grape varietals respond to very well. Vineyards are cultivated on the area's plains and hills at elevations between 75 and 600 meters above sea level.

Popular grape varieties from the Atina wine region

Cabernet Sauvignon is the major grape variety grown in the Atina wine region. Bordeaux varieties like Merlot and Cabernet Franc are two secondary grapes used to produce wines. The region also permits the use of Syrah, a typical Rhone red grape variety, and Abbuoto, a local grape variety.

Red Varietals: Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot, and Abbuoto.

White varietals: Semillon

Food to pair with Atina wine 

Rib steak

A rib steak is one of the most flavorful and tender cuts of beef. It is cut from the rib section of the cow, and is known for its rich marbling and juicy texture. A rib steak is often served as a steak entrée or used in dishes like pot roast and stews. The rib steak can be cooked using many different methods, including grilling, pan-frying, broiling, roasting, and braising. Regardless of how you cook it, rib steak is sure to make an impressive dish for any occasion. Pair it up with Cabernet Atina wines. 

Pepperoni pizza

Pepperoni pizza is a classic favorite for many pizza lovers. It is a type of pizza topped with pepperoni, which is usually made from cured pork and beef mixed together. Pepperoni pizza has become one of the most popular types of pizzas in the United States and around the world. It has a unique flavor that comes from the combination of spices used to make pepperoni, along with cheese and tomato sauce. Pepperoni pizza can be found in almost any pizzeria, but it's also possible to make it at home using store-bought ingredients. Whether you're ordering it or making it yourself, pepperoni pizza is sure to be a hit!

New York strip steak

The New York strip steak is a classic cut of beef that has been enjoyed by diners for generations. It's tender and juicy, with a bold flavor that comes from its marbling. The New York strip is one of the most popular cuts of steak, and it's easy to see why. Whether you're grilling it up for a special occasion or just enjoying a steak dinner at home, the New York strip will always be an excellent choice. With its unique flavor profile and tender texture, the New York strip is sure to please any palate. Serve it along with the red wines from the Atina wine region. 

Places to visit in the Atina wine region

Palazzo Ducale

Palazzo Ducale, also known as Ducal palace, is a medieval castle built in the 14th century flaunting gothic architecture. The palace is located in the town center of Atina in the province of Rieti, in Lazio, Italy. After the great earthquake in 1349, the Cantelmo family, an aristocratic family, reconstructed the palace and the town. In 1595, the palace was acquired by the Gallio family who sold it to the Paniccia family of Vicalvi during the 18th century. For a time being, the palace also served as a prison. The palace featured a theatre and a hall in the early 1900s. Currently, the palace serves as a town hall, the registered office, and houses a small museum dedicated to the archeology of the region. 

Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta

In the center of Atina, in the province of Frosinone, on Piazza Guglielmo Marconi, stands the Cathedral of Santa Maria, also known as Parrocchiale dell'Assunta. Bishop Leo constructed the temple of Saturn, which served as the basis for the cathedral. Historical records from 1208 are the first to make reference to the church. A tragic earthquake caused the church to be destroyed; it wasn't rebuilt until 1405. Up until the 18th century, a number of buildings were added, with significant renovations completed in 1725.

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