Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
Syrah, Frappato and Nerello Mascalese grow among the gentle hills of Podere Giudeo in the Val di Mazara, in the Trapani area. The vineyards stand at 85–120 m above sea level and extend over two opposing slopes oriented north/northwest and east/southeast. The climate is temperate Mediterranean, tending toward semi-arid, and day-to-night temperature differences often exceed 15°C. The deep clay-sandy soils are rich in minerals; clay and carbonates predominate across the estate. Vines are trained on vertical trellises and Guyot-pruned, with 4,500 plants per hectare and a yield of 80 quintals per hectare.
Grapes
A blend of Syrah, Frappato and a small component of Nerello Mascalese. The three varieties were selected to combine aromatic delicacy, structure and persistence, with Nerello Mascalese contributing a distinct savoury dimension.
Vinification
The grapes are harvested by hand from late August to mid-September. A short maceration takes place in the press, followed by soft pressing and white-wine fermentation at controlled temperature.
Ageing
The wine matures for three months sur lie.
Technical data
IGT Terre Siciliane. Alcohol: 12.5% vol. Available in a 750 ml bottle.
Tasting profile
Pale pink. The delicate nose shows raspberry, redcurrant, orange blossom, aromatic herbs and mineral-to-saline sensations. These aromas carry through to the palate, where a fine savoury presence heightens freshness, fruit and citrus character. Expansive and rich, it has good structure and persistence, finishing long and succulent. Its freshness is supported by a pronounced acid component, while the overall balance remains harmonious.
Serving and pairing
Serve at 8–10°C. Its versatility suits fish dishes, white meats and vegetarian first courses. A featured pairing is busiate with pesto alla trapanese.
Vintage notes
The 2023 Sicilian growing season was among the most difficult of recent years. Unpredictable conditions and downy mildew reduced production by more than 40%, without diminishing the quality of the remaining grapes; bunches were healthy and intact, supported by water reserves from spring rainfall. Record July heat reached 42°C and slowed vine metabolism, while some bunches suffered from sun exposure. Storms and lower temperatures in early August encouraged the vines to resume vegetative and productive activity. Ripening was delayed by roughly one week compared with recent vintages. The resulting wines were fine and elegant aromatically, with excellent concentration.
Label / history
Clerí Charme Rosato grew from a process of exploration and selection focused on three varieties. It expanded the Charme family into still wines as a fresh, harmonious rosé with good body and balance, intended to express the Mediterranean character of Podere Giudeo.
The 2023 vintage received 92 points from James Suckling.
