Grapelive Wine of the Day
By Kerry Winslow
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2010 Occhipinti “SP68” Rosso, IGT, Sicily.
Arianna Occhipinti is without question a star and her latest artisan “natural” wines are stunning examples and reached even greater heights. This new vintage of “SP68” Rosso is the best yet with greater detail, depth and freshness. This cuvee of Nero D’ Avola and Frappato is pure, focused and has balance with grenadine, red currants, blueberry and unique lingonberry layers, plus mineral and lavender notes. This wine has silky tannins, but vibrant live and brightness with just the right amount of lifting acidity. This beautiful terroir driven red has pretty dark garnet color, a red earthy spicy kick and has no telltale signs of oak at all, all the better because it is not needed. Even when left open for 48 hours, this vintage held nicely without losing a thing! While the 2009 felt a bit overripe, the 2010 is near perfect and a huge leap forward for this wine, bravo again to Ms. Occhipinti, she is making the wine world take notice. Arianna Occhipinti has made Frappato a household name, especially at my house!
($28 Est.) 94 Points, grapelive
Available at www.sfwtc.com ($26.95)
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