In the southern province of Frosinone, there is a little known town named Ripi. At the recommendation of my friend, Mia, we went to visit her family’s wine bar last evening. Open for just one year, WineRipi Cantina Diffusa, is a tiny location with a lot to offer.
Owned and operated by husband and wife team, Raffaele Cerbone, a sommelier, and Melania Persichilli, the wine bar is located on Viale Umberto I, 28 in the heart of Ripi. A native of Ripi, Melania met Raffaele while they were both serving in the military in Afghanistan in 2006. Raffaele is originally from Australia, moving to Italy at the age of 13 with his family.
Last evening we settled on a bottle red Cesanese wine, which is made from a grape indigenous to the area. Traditionally used to make sweet wines that are frizzante (slightly sparkling), Cesanese is light-bodied and also used for blending. Raffaele was kind enough to spend some time with us, chatting about the business and the various grapes grown in the area. Cabernet Sauvignon is another red grape that is planted and grows well in the region. The whites commonly grown are Malvasia and Passerina. Malvasia is often used for blending to add flavor and texture to other whites. Passerina is best enjoyed while it is young; the ones from this region tend to be full, rich, with a creamy texture.
Raffaele and Melania serve outstanding aperitivi foods at the wine bar. Because it was Friday evening, we enjoyed a nice array of fish hors d’oeuvres. They hope to expand the business, educating people about the area and what it has to offer, regarding wine, food, and traditions.
If you are ever in this area of Italy, halfway between Rome and Naples, it is worth a stop in Ripi for a glass of wine, an aperitivo and a chat with Raffaele and Melania, who will make you feel most welcomed!
