Deep ruby color; black plum, blackberry, black cherry, oak, vanilla, tobacco, leather, pepper on the nose and palate.
Dry; medium tannins and acidity. Robust flavors, but well behaved. Steel fingers in a velvet glove. Impressively extended finish. Nero d’Avola is Sicily’s signature red grape, perhaps cultivated on the volcanic island for more than 2,000 years. It compares to cabernet sauvignon and syrah and Australian shiraz. Sicily’s ample sunlight helps Nero d’Avola develop its deep color and robust flavors. The typical lack of rain during summer puts stress on the vines, lowering yields but improving quality. 14% ABV
The Pellegrino family started with wine operation in 1880 and now is run by the sixth generation. The website notes: “‘We need to imagine a prosperous and great future for the Sicily of wine, believe in it and take care of the generous land so as to create a dream, improving it more and more’ said Paolo Pellegrino, founder of the Winery. Thus the secret of the success is the love that has been passed down through generations, that takes care of and protects Marsala and its wine. In this way since far away 1880, the Pellegrino family has written its own history, becoming one of the most important families of Sicilian wine.”
The grapes come from the Gazzerota vineyard, the largest of the Pellegrino estates. The winery notes the “gazzerotta” name comes from an affectionate name for the elegant black and white magpies that fly over Sicilian fields in autumn. Magpies are considered among the smartest birds, often compared to crows and ravens. All three birds are members of the Corvidae family. Magpies self-recognize in mirror tests, make and use tools, can imitate human speech, play games and work in teams together, and show grieving behavior.
Cantine Pellegrino Gazzerotta Nero d’Avola, Sicilia DOC 2021 is tasty, dark-fruit pleaser made with Sicily’s signature red grape. Similar to cabernet sauvignon, with a click less tannin and attitude. Plays well for those skittish around bombastic cabs, but still want something that can run with big beef and savory, gamey lamb. Pair with grilled lamb; hearty beef dishes, beef stew; pasta dishes with meat and tomato sauces Cheese—ragusano, pecorino, comté, fourme d’Ambert (blue cheese), appenzeller; it can pair with some soft cheeses—asiago, burrate, ricotta, baked brie served with savory topping such as caramelized onions, fig jam. $18-24
