History and Territory
Although the Etruscan People’s origins are still shrouded in mystery much more plain and tangible are evidences about their civilization, not only thanks to the many archaeological findings - which Cerveteri is rich of - but also thanks to the mark they left on the territory which, starting from their time has been bound to a rational agricultural production. Within this framework, vine-growing for ages has taken up a special privileged place and this could explain the reason why the Territory of Caere is not only naturally devoted to this type of cultivation but also boasts a most respectful wine tradition. This in spite of the fact that in 16. century Sante Lancerio, cellarman to Pope Paul 3rd, wrote in his letter to the Pope that even though the wine from Cerveteri is of excellent quality it is advisable to drink it on the spot because it easily deteriorates during transportation. The problem, largely solved by modern techniques of wine making, is caused by the growing taking place in a mineral rich tufaceous soil which, in turn today positively affects the quality of wine. Features are exalted thanks to the particular climate conditions that are affected by the closeness to the Tyrrhenian Sea and the constant air exchange between the salty air from the sea and the fresh air from the forest-covered ills closing down the north-east view.