This is a wonder of a wine; made by Valentino Sciotti who normally makes wines in the bay of Naples (also under a volcano...). This is lovely broad and juicy wine that is made from organic Nero d'Avola grapes, in a juicy, smooth and mouth-filling style. Flavours of blackberry, cherry and balsamic spice make this an easy winner for so many occasions.
However, you'll not be knocked-over by its southern power because the organic vineyard management means that there is a retention of acidity in the grapes, making the wines balanced and drinkable, even with all that dark fruit flavour and charm. This is lovely wine!
Sicily is a fascinating place to grow grapes - with the potential for mass-produced full bodied reds, right the way up to micro-vinified whites that are some of the latest picked in Europe. The ever-dominating presence of Etna allows for grape growers to engage with volcanic soils as well as the Mediterranean influence, altitude and the heat that comes from being on a latitude level with North Africa.
These grapes are mostly grown in the southwest of the island around Lake Arancio in the Sambuca region, where warm winds are balanced by sea are and altitude, keeping vines dry and fresh during the hot summer days. The grapes are cut from the vines at harvest but before they are vinified, they dry and lose between 15 and 20% of their water content, making their sugars, colour and structural components increase in proportion to the original grape's makeup. This gives wines that are softer, smoother and richer - think organic Ripasso from Sicily and you won't be miles off.
Sure, it's called Il Passo, and though it's meant to represent the pathway that passes along the hills... they must be happy that it conveniently sounds like that massively popular style from the North of Italy, too...
It's a style that is beguiling in its own right and, at a moderate alcohol level too, it delivers serious bang for its buck. Soft and silky, it delivers red cherry, spice and floral notes with a long and easy finish.
Region: Sicily
Country: Italy
Grape(s): Nero d'Avola
Style: Smooth, Organic, Medium Full, Juicy, Fresh, Fleshy, Creamy
Best food matches: Pork, Pizza, Mature Cheeses, Lamb, Grills, Fine Dining, Charcuterie
Alcohol: 13.5%
