What Makes Sicilian Wine Special?
Sicily, like many other Italian regions, is home to a rich winemaking tradition that dates back to ancient times, long before the rise of the Roman Empire. In this article, we introduce you to the Italian wine Nero d’Avola and its most interesting curiosities—one of the red wines you can also enjoy at our Rossini restaurant.
Even if you're not a sommelier, you'll find everything you need to know about this wine, its tradition, and its pairing here. Don’t miss the opportunity to discover it!
The Origin of Sicilian Wine Tradition
As highlighted in our article about the Italian region of Sicily, its roots trace back to the early Greek settlers (circa 9 BC). Through their contact and exchanges with the Phoenicians and other Italic tribes, they began cultivating vineyards to produce their own wine from the black grape variety of Avola.
Sicily and its various locations are known for volcanic soils rich in iron and clay, coupled with a dry Mediterranean climate that provides ideal conditions for cultivation. During this time and up until its annexation to the Roman Empire, wine was one of the most popular products in provinces such as Avola, Marsala, and Syracuse. These areas became important winemaking zones, supplying neighboring regions with smooth sweet red wines.
After the fall of the Roman Empire (476 AD), many grape varieties were altered due to plagues. Thanks to continuous innovation, these areas have maintained their reputation as high-quality wine producers.
Main Characteristics of Nero d’Avola Wine
Like many red wines, such as the Tuscan Bolgheri Sassicaia, Nero d’Avola is known for its intense red color that perfectly balances light and darkness, creating visually striking effects that evoke various sensations. Its taste is very smooth, slightly acidic, and velvety, with a fruity aroma that includes distinct cherry notes. This makes it a harmonious pairing for soups, first courses, and all kinds of meats.
Thanks to its good acidity, wines with this denomination age well if stored properly. Additionally, they often come from grapes cultivated using the traditional Greek system called "alberello", a legacy of Sicily's early Greek settlers.
4 Facts You Didn’t Know About Italian Red Wines
- Nero d’Avola wine is one of the most internationally recognized wines and a favorite for those who practice vinotherapy.
- In classical times, high-class Roman women were forbidden from drinking wine to preserve their virtue, according to an edict proclaimed by Rome's first king, Romulus.
- According to the International Organisation of Vine and Wine, Italy is one of the world’s largest wine producers.
- The Italian toast tradition stems from beliefs in expelling evil spirits and avoiding poisoning attempts. Later, it evolved into a ceremonial celebration of wine.
As you can see, while it might be typical to think Italian cuisine is all about pasta and desserts, Italian wines are a significant part of its Mediterranean gastronomic essence.
Don’t miss discovering more secrets of Italian cuisine and its splendid wines like Brunello di Montalcino!