Two hectares of Bellone and three of Moscato di Terracina. That was the vineyard of Dante Giangirolami when, in 1957, he decided to start his winemaking venture in the Pontine Plain, about sixty kilometres south of Rome. At that time, the Agro Pontino was still an agricultural challenge waiting to be tackled, but Dante was undeterred. His determination was eventually passed down to his son Donato, who expanded the estate to its current size. Donato also became a pioneer of organic farming in the region, with certification dating back to 1993.
Today, the third generation—Federica, Chiara, and Laura—take care of the estate, adhering to the same values passed down through the family. The vineyard has grown to approximately 40 hectares, divided into three main sections: two in the Castelli Romani area and one in the Cori DOC. The rows are home to a wide range of grape varieties, from indigenous ones like Malvasia Puntinata, Grechetto, and Nero Buono to international ones such as Sauvignon, Viognier, Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Lepino '20 - Donato Giangirolami
The best quality-to-price wine in Lazio, according to the Berebene 2025 Guide
Among a remarkably strong line-up, the standout in our tastings was the Lepino 2020. This is a pure Nero Buono di Cori wine named after the Lepini Mountains, which form the backdrop to the vineyard in Doganella di Ninfa, where the grapes are grown. The wine matures for a year in 10-hectolitre barrels. The result is a red wine that exudes aromas of cherry, liquorice, and aromatic herbs, with a palate featuring notes of figs and smoky spices. It boasts a remarkable structure, with an incredibly long, juicy, and highly enjoyable finish.
We awarded it the Best Quality-to-Price Ratio Wine in Lazio in the Berebene 2025 guide by Gambero Rosso. Additionally, it earned Due Bicchieri Rosssi in the Vini d’Italia 2025 guide by Gambero Rosso, reaching the finals during the tastings.
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