Cantina Ferracci

Cantina Ferracci is a natural wine producer in the Lazio region of Italy. It's a small, artisanal project known for its commitment to indigenous grapes and a hands-off approach to winemaking.

History and Location

  • Location: The winery is located in the province of Rome, in the hills near the town of Affile. This is a historic area known for its unique red grape, Cesanese. The vineyards are situated on hillsides, on soils that are a mix of clay and limestone.

  • The Founder: The winery is run by Marco Ferracci, who is dedicated to a more natural and respectful approach to winemaking. His family has a long history in the area, but Marco has dedicated himself to a low-intervention style.

  • Philosophy: Ferracci's philosophy is a mix of tradition and modern, natural methods. He believes in producing wines that are a pure expression of their terroir.

Winemaking Philosophy

Cantina Ferracci's approach is characterized by a "natural" and hands-off style.

  • Organic Farming: The vineyards are farmed organically. Marco avoids the use of chemical pesticides, herbicides, and synthetic fertilizers, focusing on a healthy, biodiverse ecosystem.

  • Indigenous Grapes: The winery champions the indigenous grapes of the region, primarily Cesanese di Affile for reds and Passerina for whites.

  • Minimal Intervention: In the cellar, their approach is to guide the wine with as little intervention as possible.

    • Spontaneous Fermentation: All wines are fermented using indigenous, or wild, yeasts.

    • No Filtration: The wines are unfined and unfiltered, preserving their full flavor and character.

    • Minimal Sulfur: The use of sulfur is kept to a minimum.

  • Aging: The wines are aged in a variety of vessels to allow them to express their unique character without being overshadowed by wood.

Notable Wines

Cantina Ferracci produces a small but highly-regarded portfolio of wines that are authentic expressions of the Lazio terroir.

  • Ave Petrus: A red wine made from 100% Cesanese di Affile. It is a full-bodied red with a distinct savory and rustic character, with notes of dark fruit and spice.

  • Onirico: A red wine, also made from Cesanese di Affile, known for being a bit lighter and more approachable than the Ave Petrus.

  • Quipe': A white wine made from the native Passerina grape. It is known for its freshness, floral notes, and a crisp, mineral finish.