Last week, I couldn’t stop raving about three amazing Italian wines that just so happened to come in a box. This week, I thought it would be fun to continue our Italian wine journey and focus on one specific region – Sicily. Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, is home to one of the largest wine-producing regions in Italy. The history of winemaking in Sicily dates back thousands of years before the island became a part of Italy in 1860.

Now, let me make one thing clear – there’s no way I can cover all the different types of Sicilian wines in just one article. Sicily is too vast and diverse for that. Instead, think of this as a brief introduction, a little teaser if you will, featuring three incredible Sicilian red wines.

First, let me point out that these wines range in price from $20 to $32 per bottle. And just like Lieutenant Columbo used to say, they can be served slightly chilled. So if you’re looking for a refreshing red wine on a hot summer day, these wines are an excellent choice. However, I must say that I also believe these wines taste just as great at room temperature. You can decide which way to enjoy them, and I hope you do!

Now, let’s take a moment to appreciate the rich history of winemaking in Sicily. Archeological evidence suggests that people on the island have been making wine for nearly 6,000 years. Sicily is one of the oldest winemaking regions in Italy, and its wines have been enjoyed by ancient Greeks, Romans, Vikings, and the British throughout history. Today, Sicilian wines are loved by people all over the world. In fact, last year, Sicily produced over 154 million gallons of wine, which is roughly 65 million cases!

When it comes to wine regions in Sicily, there are many fantastic ones to explore, but for now, let’s focus on the most prominent ones. Etna, named after the famous volcano on the island, has high-altitude vineyards with rich volcanic soil. Marsala, another well-known region in Sicily, produces the island’s distinct fortified wine. Faro and Vittoria are also notable wine regions worth mentioning.

Now onto the grape varieties. The most popular red wine grape in Sicily is nero d’avola. It’s known for producing rich, flavorful wines. Other notable red wine grapes from Sicily include frappato, nerello mascalese, and perricone. When it comes to white wine grapes, catarratto takes the crown as the most popular one in Sicily. Grillo and carricante are other well-known white wine grapes from the region.

So, without further ado, let’s dive into the tasting notes of three fantastic Sicilian red wines:

1. 2022 Duca di Salaparuta ‘Calanica’ Frappato Sicilia ($19.99): This wine, made from 100% frappato grapes, is one of my personal favorites. While many people suggest serving frappato slightly chilled, I highly recommend trying it at room temperature or around 60 to 70 degrees. Its deep, inky red color gives way to a wonderful, flinty finish with hints of poached blackberries and violets. The flavors remain intense even after an hour and continue to develop into dense, dark fruit flavors. This elegant wine pairs perfectly with hearty dishes.

2. 2019 Planeta ‘Eruzione 1614’ Nerello Mascalese Sicilia ($25): This distinct red wine hails from the black soils near the Etna volcano. Straight out of the bottle, you’ll taste light, bright cherry notes with hints of red licorice and spice. Allow this wine some time to evolve, and you’ll be rewarded with dense, dark fruit flavors after an hour. On the second day, the wine’s dry, flinty yet fragrant floral finish emerges, accompanied by hints of dark cherry. It pairs wonderfully with hard cheese.

3. 2019 Barone Montalto ‘Ammasso’ Rosso Sicilia ($31.99): This blended red wine combines nero d’avola, nerello mascalese, merlot, and cabernet sauvignon for an exciting and ever-changing experience. Each sip reveals different characteristics, keeping you intrigued throughout. From one mouthful to another, you’ll taste a range of flavors. This versatile wine is perfect for any occasion.

So, there you have it – a glimpse into the world of Sicilian red wines. While this article only scratches the surface, I hope it sparks your curiosity and encourages you to explore the diverse and exciting wines Sicily has to offer. Cheers!

A Unique Journey for Your Taste Buds: Exploring the Marvels of Sicilian Red Wines ###

Picture this – you’re sitting at a table adorned with a succulent steak or a delectable dessert. Your anticipation grows as you uncork a bottle of Sicilian red wine, ready to embark on a journey of flavors and experiences. But this isn’t any ordinary wine – it’s a true embodiment of Sicily’s winemaking mastery.

As you pour the velvety liquid into your glass, its dense, dark hue captivates your senses. The first sip reveals an intriguing robustness and a distinct flinty touch. Notes of blackberry and raisins dance on your palate, adding layers of complexity to the already mesmerizing taste. It’s an experience that leaves you wanting more – an experience that reminds you why wine is more than just a drink; it’s an art form.

But the story doesn’t end there. An hour later, as you revisit your glass, you notice a subtle transformation. The once bold fruit flavors have embraced a touch of sweetness and ripeness. It’s as if time has worked its magic, elevating the wine to new heights and unveiling hidden nuances. Your taste buds marvel at the harmonious dance between the dark fruit flavors and the delicate hints of plum and blackberry that now emerge. It’s a captivating spectacle, one that showcases the exquisite craftsmanship behind every bottle of Sicilian red wine.

And let’s not forget the climax of this unforgettable tale – the next day. You pour another glass, hesitant yet eager to see what surprises await you. And like clockwork, the dense, dark fruit flavors proudly reemerge, ensuring that the legacy of this wine lingers on your palate. The hints of plum and blackberry take center stage once again, reaffirming their place among the pantheon of outstanding wines from around the world.

Sicilian red wines, with their ability to captivate and evolve, deserve a spot at any connoisseur’s table. Their rich history and unique characteristics make them a true testament to the artistry and passion of Sicily’s winemakers. With each sip, they transport you to sun-soaked vineyards, where grapes are carefully nurtured to perfection. They allow you to savor the fruits of centuries-old traditions, preserved and refined over time.

So, next time you indulge in a fine meal or seek the perfect companion for a delightful dessert, consider reaching for a bottle of Sicilian red wine. Let its ever-evolving flavors take you on a journey through time and space, reminding you that there’s always something new to discover in the world of wine. Cheers to Sicilian reds – a testament to the remarkable beauty that lies within a single sip.

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Note: Wine Press by Ken Ross is a regular column appearing on Masslive.com every Monday and in The Republican’s Weekend section every Thursday. The author may receive compensation if you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on this site. By browsing this site, you agree to the sharing of your information with our social media partners, as outlined in our Privacy Policy.