Wine Press: Exceptional Red Wines from Sicily

This article presents the allure of Sicily, particularly its rich winemaking tradition. The author recounts experiences such as wine-tasting dinners under the stars in Catania, strolls through the scenic streets of Siracusa and Noto, and meals in beautiful vineyards scattered across the island. The spotlight remains on the high-quality red wines that Sicily is renowned for, with a focus on three key grape varieties.

Sicily Wine Statistics

• 242,000 acres of vineyards
• 7,200 wine growers
• 530 wine bottlers
• 30% of organic Italian wine is produced in Sicily

History of Winemaking

Sicily’s winemaking dates back over 4,000 years, beginning with the Greeks. Its favorable conditions include warm summers, mild rainy winters, varied soils, and a multitude of grape varieties—over 70 types thrive on the island.

Winemaking Regions

Sicily features four distinct climates influencing its wines:

• Coastal Climate: Milder than inland areas.
• Mt. Etna Region: Humid and warmer on the east, cooler on the north.
• Mountainous Areas: Colder regions.
• Inland Areas: Generally hotter and more humid.

Sicilian Red Wine Grapes

Among the over 70 varieties, the following three are essential to the island’s famous reds:

• Nero D’Avola: A native grape that gained prominence in the 1600s and 1800s, known for producing rich and fruity wines.
• Frappato: Often blended with Nero D’Avola, this grape offers a fresh, light flavor profile.
• Nerello Mascalese: Primarily found on Mount Etna, these grapes yield earthy wines reflecting the unique volcanic soil.

Wine Tasting Notes

Tasting notes from the author include several distinct Sicilian reds:

• 2022 Kaggera Nero D’Avola: Dense with floral aromas, hints of dark chocolate and leather.
• 2022 Colosi Nero D’Avola: Delicate and fragrant, with lasting cherry and raspberry notes.
• 2021 Fondo Antico ‘Nene’ Nero D’Avola (Highly Recommended): Austere yet playful, with black licorice and raspberry hints.
• 2016 Tenute Cuffaro ‘Flippo Il’ Nero D’Avola: Oaky and dense, unveiling its complexity over time.
• 2020 Eruzione 1614 Planeta (Highly Recommended): A lively red with a Beaujolais-like finish.
• 2021 Tenuta Regaleali Lamuri Nero D’Avola: Full-bodied and age-worthy, excellent with food.
• 2021 Donnafugata Sul Vulcano Etna Rosso DOC: Bright fruit flavors with a soft finish.
• 2021 Diodoros: Funky blend needing aeration, offering vibrant fruit flavors.
• 2020 Cantodoro Stemmari Riserva (Highly Recommended): Dense with complex layers of flavor.

Local Wine Events

Wine enthusiasts can look forward to events such as the wine tasting class focusing on New Zealand wines hosted by Provisions in Longmeadow, scheduled for September 23.

More Recommended Wines

Everyday Wines (under $15):

• 2024 Cote Mas Rose Aurore Pays d’OC IGP ($9): A bright, fruity rosé from France perfect for warmer days.

Weekend Wines (under $40):

• 2023 Whitehall Lane Rutherford Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc ($30): Crisp and refreshing with citrus notes.

Splurge Wines (under $100):

• 2019 Famiglia Pasqua Amarone Della Valpolicella DOCG ($60): A classic Italian Amarone with rich flavors.

Lottery Wines (over $100):

• 2012 Perrier-Jouet Belle Epoque, Fleur de Champagne Blanc de Blancs Brut Millesime ($400): A beautifully crafted vintage Champagne with a remarkable finish.

In celebrating Sicily’s wines, the article invites readers to explore the island’s unique offerings and consider tasting these recommended bottles. Cheers!

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!