Description

Nero d’Avola is a very particular Sicilian varietal: originating from the island and at one point was entirely exclusive to Sicily. Named after the southeastern town, it became known as the ‘black of Avola’. While there are no vineyards of this dark grape in Colorado, several years ago we were able to purchase some from a grower in California. Us Balistreri’s having our Sicilian roots made it a grape we have always wanted to work with and are now fortunate enough to regularly make.

The 2024 vintage is ideal in showcasing this varietal. The deep purple hues are contrasted with an deliciously elegant palate. While the year was quite hot and gave us very ripe fruit, this Nero d’Avola shows restraint from its underlying power in the form of levity and juicy acidy, especially on the tip of the tongue. Pungent fruit flavors will become dense and lush with age (4-6 years), which we recommend, but young this Nero is dangerously tasty and versatile. It does a lot of heavy lifting for a wine so fresh out the gate. Whether its cheese and fruit, Wednesday night pizza, or steaks on the grill, I think it will overdeliver with freshness and delight.

But don’t get too casual with this ‘porch-pounder’. A closer look and you’ll see wonderful aromas of plum and violet. Definitely let this wine open up, even 30 minutes, and you’ll be greatly rewarded. The tongue swirls with ripe and sweet plum, baking spices akin to cinnamon, nutmeg and allspice, and flashes of bright tart raspberry. These flavors signal to a wine of weight and density…and yet it remains on its toes, keeping you refreshed and eager for more!

Well, if you can’t tell, we love this new Nero d’Avola! We are sure you will too and can’t wait for you taste it! Enjoy it all summer long.