Frascati DiVino Piccante

A unique encounter between Frascati wine and chili peppers

Frascati DiVino Piccante debuted in 2026 at Parco dell'Ombrellino, one of the most beloved green spaces in the town of Frascati, located in the province of Rome, Lazio. The concept behind the event is as simple as it is intriguing: to bring together two seemingly distant gastronomic worlds—the great white wines of the Frascati area and the intense flavors of spicy Calabrian cuisine. The result is a tasting journey that invites the public to discover how the freshness and minerality of Castelli Romani wine can stand up to—and even enhance—the pungent notes of chili peppers.

Parco dell'Ombrellino, the event's backdrop

The choice of Parco dell'Ombrellino is no coincidence. This public park has become a focal point of local life in recent years thanks to the efforts of volunteers and local associations, and it now hosts outdoor events, environmental initiatives, and family gatherings. The park offers shaded areas, lawns, and pathways that are perfect for setting up stalls, dining areas, and stages for evening performances. Visitors arriving from Rome will find this a natural stop during a day in the Castelli Romani, nestled among historic villas, traditional wineries, and panoramic views of the capital.

Consortium wineries and Frascati wines

The oenological heart of the event is managed by the wineries belonging to the Consorzio Tutela Denominazioni Vini Frascati, offering both tastings and direct sales. Frascati Superiore DOCG is the absolute star: a white wine born on the volcanic hills of the Colli Albani, made from Malvasia del Lazio, Malvasia di Candia, Trebbiano, and Bombino grapes. In recent years, it has seen a clear rise in quality thanks to more attentive viticulture and precise winemaking. Alongside the wine glasses, the public can explore a culinary path specifically designed to pair wine with spicy food.

Chili peppers from around the world and regional street food

One section of the event is dedicated to the exhibition and sale of chili peppers from all over the world, designed for both seasoned enthusiasts and curious newcomers, with the chance to compare varieties, heat levels, and culinary uses. The street food areas offer typical Calabrian specialties—from 'nduja to southern cured meats and cheeses—alongside products from other Italian regions, creating a mosaic of flavors that goes far beyond the theme of spice.

Masterclasses, magic, and the spicy pasta contest

The program includes several signature events. The first day is dedicated to the "Frascati Superiore DOCG & spicy Calabrian cuisine" masterclass, led by FISAR sommeliers, who explore the sensory marriage between white wine and chili peppers with a technical yet accessible approach. The following evening, the stage is set for illusionism, featuring young talents from the Club Magico di Roma. The event concludes with the spicy pasta-eating contest, a spectacular and fun-filled moment that directly involves the audience and rewards the most resilient participants.

An event for families and the city

The festival is designed as an open format for locals, families, and tourists alike: live music, entertainment, and activities for children accompany the days, making the event accessible even to those who are not wine experts. The event is organized by the Associazione Tradizioni d'Italia, with the patronage of the Municipality of Frascati and the collaboration of the Consortium, FISAR, and various local associations.

Why it's worth visiting

In a region where food and wine festivals are abundant, Frascati DiVino Piccante stands out for its unconventional pairing concept and the dialogue between two strong regional traditions: that of Lazio and Calabria. It is a perfect opportunity to get to know the Frascati denomination outside of the usual tourist circuits and to experience the city park in a convivial setting, just a few kilometers from Rome.