For the month of October, my Wine of the Month selection is a Nero D’Avola from Sicily, specifically Firriato’s Nero D’Avola Chiaramonte (2021). This one I had to get from the Saratoga Wine Exchange, because the Clinton guys don’t have one. If your local wine store doesn’t carry this exact brand, that’s OK; as long as it’s a DOC wine from Sicily and no younger than 2021. The Nero D’Avola is an interesting, and very affordable wine(Firriato’s is near the top of Billy’s price range) that is often overlooked when folks think Italian. Most people will go for a Sangiovese from Chianti Classico, a Nebbiolo from Piedmont, or even a Super Tuscan blend. Hence, one reason I chose this wine.
So, what makes the Nero D’Avola different? Glad you asked! According to my 2 reference books (the WAoW & the OCtW), Nero D’Avola is grown all over the island of Sicily, but grows best on the eastern slopes of Mt. Etna or in the chalky/sandy soil of the southeastern corner of the island, in the Noto or Eloro DOCs. It likes hot, dry growing conditions and very low vine training to succeed. Otherwise, it has body, deep color, a classic cherry fruit bouquet, and can produce a “strikingly elegant and ageworthy” (WAoW) wine. Only 14% of Sicily’s wine is DOC or IGT worthy, but most of that is exported Nero D’Avola. It shares many of the same characteristics as Italy’s other 2 BIG grape varietals (Sangiovese & Nebbiolo), but is a bit more Cab. Sauv. like than Pinot Noir like (less acid, more body & tannins). It also tends to be creamier and a bit fruiter (like a Cab.).
As far as tasting notes go, both mine and theirs, this wine has acid, but not as much as a Sangiovese. It also has a decent amount of body & tannins, without being too aggressive. It definitely has cherry, orange peel, and spices on the nose. You may also get a hint of plums, black berries, and mushrooms in the finish. It’s a somewhat “creamy”, easy drinking wine, that would improve with age. It will go with most tomato based dishes, like a Sangiovese, but also goes with a variety of red meats and some “heavy” fish; a very versatile, food worthy wine. James Suckling rated this one as a 91 and gave it a “Drink or Hold”. If you like Italian wine, as most Americans do, and have not yet tried a Nero D’Avola, then what are you waiting for? Go get one today! You’ll be glad you did.
That should be enough for this Post. Next time, I will finish my Education series on the 9 Noble Grapes. Be sure to check it out. Cheers!