Zisola Noto Rosso 2022

Zisola is the Mazzei family's venture in the Val di Noto, in the south-eastern corner of Sicily, an estate of around 21 hectares planted to the island's flagship red grape. Nero d'Avola thrives in this hot, sun-drenched Mediterranean climate, where the calcareous soils and warm days build deep colour, ripe fruit and generous body, while the sea-influenced nights help retain freshness. Low yields concentrate the fruit, and the wine spends nine months in French oak barrels, where slow oxygen exchange softens the tannins and adds a frame of spice and vanilla without overwhelming the variety's dark fruit. It pours a vibrant ruby red. The nose is powerful and warming, with macerated black cherry and plum, cracked pepper and a savoury edge of dried Mediterranean herbs. The palate is full bodied and ripe, with round supple tannins, balanced acidity and a long finish carrying liquorice and a sun-warmed, earthy character true to its southern origin. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, decanting briefly if young. It is built for grilled and roasted meat and for the robust flavours of southern Italian cooking.