Deep ruby color; black cherry, black plum, blackberry, balsamic vinegar, crushed rock minerality, vanilla, oak on the nose and palate.
Dry; chewy, dusty but not obnoxious tannins; balancing acidity (3.59 pH). Medium body. This is expression of Sicily’s signature red grape from higher elevations on the island, distinguishing itself from the same variety grown on the warmer coast and flatland areas. The soil is sand, silt, and deep clay with the always presence of some volcanic ash. Macerated in temperature-controlled stainless steel for 12 days. Full malolactic fermentation/conversion. Aged 12 months in small French oak barrels, 20% new and remainder in second and third passage. 13% ABV
Nero d’Avola is the most important red grape in Sicily. Sometimes it is called Sicily’s cabernet sauvignon, other times called Sicily’s syrah. On my palate, the grape falls between them, lacking cab’s higher tannins and massiveness, lacking the heft/brawn of syrah. If forced to make a metaphor, I would liken it to a syrah-based Northern Rhône blend, maybe even a California pinot noir but—really—just appreciate the uniqueness of Nero d’Avola, a delicious experience in its own right.
Tasca d’Almerita is a substantial Sicilian winemaker, producing some 3.3 million bottles annually. It is a family-run organization, now in its eighth generation with Alberto Tasca the current CEO. Tasca has long been an advocate of sustainable agriculture. Wine Enthusiast Magazine named Tasca d’Almerita the 2019 European Winery of the Year. It is a certified B Corporation, reflecting a global movement committed to high standards of both social and environmental impact.
Winebow, Inc.—a significant player in imports into U.S.—handles Tasca, so you should have luck finding this wine or other Tasca efforts at a good wine store or online. Go to the Winebow page for nicely in-depth information (link below) about the winery. The Tasca website also is filled with information and photos.
Tasca d’Almerita Tenuta Regaleali Lamùri Nero d’Avola, Sicilia DOC 2020 is an impressive example of nero d’avola, Sicily’s signature red grape. Robust, velvety texture with well-integrated tannins and very good acidity. Elegant, refreshing, an excellent value—as are so many Sicilian wines. Pair with rich beef dishes; spaghetti and meatballs, rigatoni with sausage and fennel; grilled, roasted lamb; beef stew; herbed pork chops. Cheese—pecorino romano, aged parmigiano-reggiano, grana padano, provolone, manchego, aged cheddar, taleggio, robiola. $19-23
U.S. importer’s website page on Tasca
