2011 Valle Dell’ Acate, Cerasuolo di Vittoria DOCG Classico, Sicily, Italy.
The Valle Dell’ Acate winery with a history that dates back to 1870 makes a fine and rewarding Cerasuolo di Vittoria, a textured blend of Nero d’ Avola and Frappato that performs solidly with some flair and energy. Along with COS, Occhipinti and Nanfro, Valle Dell’ Acate is proving the more elegant and vibrant style of winemaking is the way to go with these grapes and terroir, they have brought this small region to the world’s attention and deserve huge credit, these are glorious and fun wines, all with their own story to tell, in particular this 2011 Valle Dell’ Acate Cerasuolo shines with deep flavors and refinement, it highlights perfectly the play in contrast of these two native varietals with the Nero d’ Avola giving the impression of black and blue fruits while the pretty Frappato gives strawberry, crushed roses and red baked peach elements. The start has a nice array of scents and a beautiful ruby red hue with dried flowers, light balsamic notes, blueberry and sweet herbs leading to a palate of silky tannins lifting up raspberry, plum, pomegranate and strawberry fruits with a hint of basil and anise, a bit of guava, chalky earth, cedar and exotic spice all add to the pleasure in this vivid medium weight red. This wine is lovely from start to finish showing finesse and stylish flourish, drink this well made Cerasuolo di Vittoria Classico over the next 3 to 5 years, this is savvy stuff!
($25 Est.) 93 Points, grapelive
