Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
A pure Nero d’Avola from Tenuta di Suor Marchesa, inland in southern Sicily near Riesi in the municipality of Butera. The estate’s combination of soil, climate and elevation supports a style balancing enveloping softness with freshness. The 2023 season had a relatively dry winter, followed by a cool, humid spring and a hot, dry, breezy summer with pronounced day-to-night temperature variation.
Grapes
100% Nero d’Avola.
Vinification
Harvest took place in the first half of October. The grapes were destemmed and fermented at a controlled temperature in stainless-steel tanks before racking.
Ageing
Ageing was divided between concrete tanks and first- and second-use oak barriques for at least eight months. The wine then matured in bottle for at least two months before release.
Technical data
Blend proportions vary by vintage. Latest published composition: 100% Nero d’Avola.
Tasting profile
Vibrant red. The intense, enveloping bouquet leads with marasca cherry, raspberry and plum, followed by spice and vanilla. Rich, broad and velvety on the palate, with full body, lasting aromatic persistence and tannins that are austere yet pleasant.
Serving and pairing
Serve at 14–16 °C. Pair with succulent first courses, red meat, grilled meats and mature cheeses. It may be opened immediately when poured into large glasses.
Vintage notes
The detailed wine page presents 2023, while the official shop currently presents 2024. The shop characterizes the newer release as velvety, structured and aromatically persistent, with austere but gentle tannins.
Label / history
The I Vini di Tenuta labels recount Sicily through photographs by Mimmo Pintacuda. Passo delle Mule features Prima dell’alba (1968).
