Mario Batali's Lazio Red Wine Picks

While Lazio is best known for its white wines, the reds are beginning to make a serious impression on foodies everywhere. Mario Batali recommends a few rossi from the region. Try Colle Picchioni for a Bordeaux-like quality, I Quattro Mori by Castel de Paolis is similar to a Syrah, and the indigenous Cesanese is often blended with other grapes for a complex meritage. The 2007 growing year was considered very good in Lazio, so look for that vintage.

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