Planeta La Segreta Rosso 2023

La Segreta Rosso is Planeta's everyday Sicilian red, named after the woodland surrounding its vineyards near Menfi in the south-west of the island. It is led by Nero d'Avola, the flagship Sicilian grape, blended with Merlot, Syrah and Cabernet Franc drawn from several estate sites planted between 75 and 415 metres above sea level. The range of altitudes balances the warm Mediterranean climate, the higher plots holding acidity and freshness while the lower ones bring ripeness and depth. This is a young wine made for early drinking, vinified without oak ageing to keep the fruit clean and direct. Nero d'Avola gives ripe cherry and plum, Syrah adds pepper and a darker edge, and the Bordeaux grapes lend structure and a leafy, floral lift. The wine is bright ruby, with a nose of ripe cherry, red berries, dried herbs and fresh flowers. The palate is medium bodied, smooth and fruit forward, with gentle tannins and a clean, savoury finish. Serve at 16 degrees. It suits grilled meats, lamb and tomato-based dishes.