About this wine
Vineyard and terroir
The fruit comes from various plots covering 10 ha in Contrada Graffetta at Ispica. The fertile, generous soils are rich in marine limestone. The vineyards lie at an average elevation of 40 m with southern exposure. The vines are eight years old, planted at 6,500 vines/ha and managed with both spur and cane pruning. Average yield is 1.2 kg per vine.
Grapes
100% Nero d’Avola, a variety also known locally as Calabrese.
Vinification
Harvest extends from the second half of September through the first half of October. Maceration lasts 10–12 days at approximately 28°C. Malolactic fermentation takes place in stainless steel.
Ageing
The wine matures for six months, divided equally between tonneaux and stainless steel, followed by at least three months in bottle.
Technical data
Sicilia DOC. Annual production is approximately 70,000 bottles.
Tasting profile
The color is intense and dense. Ripe red fruit and leather shape the nose. The palate is full-bodied and velvety, leading to a soft, juicy finish.
Serving and pairing
Serve at 16°C. Pair with pasta in meat and mushroom sauce, roasts or medium-aged cheeses.
Label / history
Ispica and the wider Val di Noto are historic Nero d’Avola territory; the variety takes its name from the city of Avola. During September and October, the area was once filled with the smell of fermenting must, while grapes dropped from carts on their way to local crushing sites covered the roads.