This Sicilian red might catch your eye if you’re drawn to Nero d’Avola, but it’s very different from the usual expressions of that grape. It’s a blend of Nero d’Avola and Syrah from the 2021 vintage, with 14% ABV and a long 18 months spent in oak barrels. The result is a distinctive, deeply flavoured wine, shaped by the hands of acclaimed winemaker Stefano Chioccioli, whose past work has earned perfect scores from both the Gambero Rosso wine guide and Robert Parker.
Now starting to show a bit of age in the glass with a touch of browning, the wine offers a rich bouquet of oak, vanilla and dark fruits. On tasting, it’s dry yet juicy, with flavours of blackcurrant and dried fig, supported by generous oak influence. The texture is soft, with low tannins and a rounded feel that appears noticeably after half an hour open. That time really allows the wine’s depth to unfold beautifully.
It’s unmistakably oak-forward, which for some, myself included, is part of its charm. It brings to mind a great full-bodied Amarone more than a typical Sicilian red, making it an interesting and satisfying alternative. I can easily see it pairing well with smoky grilled meats, making it an ideal wine for a summer barbecue.
Imported by North South Wines and available in the UK through Majestic, where it’s priced at £12 as part of their mix-six offer, this wine represents excellent value. According to Majestic, 94% of over 300 customers would buy it again. A rich, unusual bottle that rewards a bit of patience and will surprise those expecting a straightforward Nero d’Avola.
