Nero D'Avola

Experience Sicily's essence in Nero d'Avola: a bold, opulent red with dark cherries, spices, and Mediterranean charm.

About

The Sicilian Allure

Nero d'Avola, often hailed as the "Black Grape of Avola," reigns as Sicily's premier red wine grape, embodying the island's sun-soaked terroir and rich viticultural history. This noble grape variety thrives in the Mediterranean climate of Sicily, producing wines of exceptional depth, character, and bold elegance.

History

The historical roots of Nero d'Avola reach deep into Sicily's past, where it has been cultivated for centuries. Named after the town of Avola in southeastern Sicily, this grape has evolved into the region's signature red variety. Nero d'Avola's robust nature and adaptability have made it an imperative part of Sicilian wine-making traditions.

Overview

Nero d'Avola is the embodiment of Sicilian viticulture. It boasts a striking combination of intense flavours, ample structure, and a unique sense of place. These wines encapsulate the essence of the island's diverse terroirs, showcasing the sun-drenched coast warmth and the elevated freshness of hillside vineyards.

Taste Profile

Nero d'Avola is celebrated for its full-bodied and expressive character. It often reveals flavours of dark cherries, plums, and blackberries intertwined with nuances of black pepper, licorice, and Mediterranean herbs. These elements create a multi-layered palate that captures the essence of Sicily.

Colour

The colour of Nero d'Avola wine is a deep and captivating garnet, reflecting the grape's concentration and potential for aging.

Flavours & Aromas

Nero d'Avola enchants with an aromatic bouquet that includes fragrances of ripe red fruits, wildflowers, and hints of balsamic notes. Aromas of sun-ripened black cherries, rosemary, and a touch of cocoa fill the glass, setting the stage for a palate of immense depth and character.

Spice

Nero d'Avola's spice elements are prominent yet refined, often showcasing notes of black pepper, clove, and a hint of anise.

Taste

Bold, rich, and evocative.

Wine Structure

Dry, moderate acidity, gentle tannins, 13.5-14.5% abv, medium to full body.

Wine Styles

Nero d'Avola lends itself to a range of winemaking styles. It can be crafted into single-varietal expressions showcasing its bold nature and blended wines, highlighting its unique characteristics. Some producers choose oak aging to add layers of complexity, resulting in wines of exceptional depth and refinement.

Food Pairing

Nero d'Avola's rich flavours and ample structure make it a versatile companion for many dishes. It pairs beautifully with Sicilian cuisines, such as grilled lamb, pasta with tomato-based sauces, and aged cheeses. Its bold elegance also complements hearty international dishes.

Common Regions to Find Nero d'Avola

Nero d'Avola is predominantly associated with Sicily, where it thrives in various subregions, including Noto, Vittoria, and Siracusa. These areas offer diverse terroirs that contribute to the grape's multifaceted expressions. While Sicily remains its primary home, Nero d'Avola is also cultivated in other parts of Italy and has gained recognition on the international stage.

Summary

Nero d'Avola is Sicily's majestic red jewel, a grape variety that embodies the island's viticultural heritage and diverse terroirs. Its historical significance and adaptability have made it a symbol of Sicilian winemaking traditions. The deep garnet colour and aromatic bouquet of ripe red fruits and wildflowers herald a palate filled with dark cherries, plums, and subtle spices.