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Photo via the EU Agriculture Committee

As of August 2025, the EU has approved a Geographical Indication (GI) for Ratafia Ciociara (Rattafia Ciociaraa)—a red wine-and-cherry liqueur produced in the territory of Ciociaria (located within the province of Frosinone. Lazio).

Ratafia Ciociara is a dark red, sweet liqueur produced via the infusion of Morello or Amarena cherries along with locally produced red wine. Sugar, spirits, and spices may also be added.

• The specific regulations for the production of Ratafia Ciociara GI include the following:
  • The spirit is based on the red wines of the region, specifically Cesanese del Piglio PDO or Atina PDO.
  • The cherries—of the Morello or Amarena varieties—are steeped in wine, water, and/or spirits for at least 30 days in temperature-controlled containers, followed by 40 days of maceration in a non-temperature-controlled environment (“in the sun”), or until the cherries settle at the bottom of the container.
  • After the infusion, the mixture—which may be pressed at this time—is filtered.
  • After filtration, cane sugar and neutral spirits are added so that the liqueur reaches a minimum of 70 g/L of sugar and 17% to 35% abv. If red wine was not previously used, it is added at this point.
  • Natural cherry juice, cherry infusions, and spices (cinnamon, vanilla, cloves, bitter almond) may also be used to flavor the product.

The region around Ciociaria has a history of cherry cultivation dating back to (at least) the 17^th century. Cherries have been a beloved source of food for the local population, who have enjoyed the fresh fruit as well as cherry jam, jelly, and sorbet/gelato for centuries. In addition, it was a tradition to soak the cherries in the locally produced red wine to both enrich the flavor of the wine and make a drink that proved to be “very tasty in the summer months” (Statistica del Regno, 1811).

Ratafia Ciociara is typically served—neat or over ice—as a digestif or alongside sweets or dessert. Welcome to the World, Ratafia Ciociara!

References/for more information:

• Disciplinare Ratagia Ciociara GI
• EU Council Implementing Decision Ratafia Ciociara

Post authored by Jane A. Nickles…your blog administrator: jnickles@societyofwineeducators.org

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