Luna Gaia Chiaramontesi Nero d’Avola 2021

Luna Gaia is a biodynamic venture between the Orsogna cooperative in Abruzzo and a group of Sicilian growers, and this Chiaramontesi bottling is pure Nero d'Avola, the grape most closely tied to Sicily. Nero d'Avola thrives in the island's heat and strong sun, ripening to deep colour and full, dark fruit while keeping a firm core of acidity that stops the wine turning heavy. The grapes are farmed biodynamically and the wine is fermented and held for six months in stainless steel, with no barrel, so the fruit and the warm Sicilian character come through cleanly and the tannin stays supple. Steel ageing preserves the bright primary fruit and the wine's natural freshness. The colour is deep ruby. The nose shows ripe plum, black cherry and red berries, with black pepper, liquorice and a dusty, earthy note. The palate is medium to full bodied, round and fruit driven, with soft tannin and a warm, savoury finish. At 13.5% it stays approachable. Serve at 16 to 17C. It suits grilled and roast meats, tomato based pasta and firm cheeses.