Discover Ischia’s Best Rosé: Cenatiempo’s Rosato ’23

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Uncover the magic of Ischia's wine heritage with Cenatiempo's award-winning Rosato '23, a top value rosé from Italy's Campania region.

Introduction to Ischia’s Wine Legacy

Ischia, a beautiful island off the coast of Campania, Italy, boasts a rich history intertwined with viticulture that dates back over 2800 years. Colonized by the Greeks in the 8th century B.C., this enchanting locale has long been recognized for its fertile lands and favorable climate for grape cultivation. Today, Ischia is home to a handful of wineries dedicated to preserving its ancient winemaking traditions, notably the historic estate founded by Francesco Cenatiempo in 1945. With vineyards nestled in 17th-century cellars within Kalimera Hill, Cenatiempo produces wines that beautifully express the island’s indigenous grape varieties.

The Indigenous Grape Varieties of Ischia

The vineyards of Ischia primarily cultivate native grape varieties that thrive in this unique environment. Among these are:

• Biancolella: A white grape known for its fresh and fruity characteristics.
• Forastera: Another indigenous white variety that contributes to the aromatic profile of local wines.
• Piedirosso: A red grape celebrated for its structure and depth.
• Guarnaccia: A lesser-known variety that adds complexity to blends.

These grapes are not just a part of Ischia’s heritage; they embody the essence of its terroir. The careful cultivation methods employed by local winemakers ensure that these varietals flourish, resulting in expressive wines that balance tradition with modern drinkability.

Highlighting Cenatiempo’s Rosato ’23

Among the impressive lineup from Cenatiempo, the Rosato ’23 stands out as an exceptional value wine recognized by Gambero Rosso’s "Berebene 2025" guide. This rosé is crafted from a blend of Piedirosso and Aglianico grapes, vinified exclusively in stainless steel to preserve freshness and vibrancy. It presents enticing notes of:

• White cherry
• Raspberry
• Oceanic salinity

The wine features a solid mineral structure and vibrant energy, making it perfect for warm weather sipping or pairing with light dishes.

Awards and Recognition

Cenatiempo’s Rosato ’23 has garnered significant acclaim not only for its quality but also for its outstanding price-to-value ratio. In the competitive landscape of Italian wines, receiving the Premio Regionale Qualità Prezzo signifies excellence in both taste and affordability. This recognition encourages wine enthusiasts to explore more about what Ischia has to offer while celebrating local craftsmanship.

Conclusion: Experience Ischia Through Its Wines

Exploring Ischia’s wine culture provides a glimpse into Italy’s rich viticultural tapestry. With wineries like Cenatiempo leading the charge in preserving indigenous varieties and traditional methods, there has never been a better time to experience this captivating island through its wines. The Rosato ’23 not only exemplifies quality but also invites you to discover the unique flavors and stories behind each bottle from this historic region.

Photo by Sebastien Dottin on Unsplash