What kind of wine is Cerasuolo di Vittoria Classico DOCG 'Delle Fontane' 2017 Magnum - COS
The Cerasuolo di Vittoria Classico DOCG 'Delle Fontane' 2017 Magnum - COS is an elegant Sicilian red wine with a great personality, an authentic expression of the Vittoria territory, in the heart of the island's south-east. It originates from the union of the two symbolic grape varieties of this appellation: Nero d’Avola, which gives structure and depth, and Frappato, which contributes fresh aromas and delicacy. The result is a harmonious, balanced, and surprisingly refined red, a perfect example of the unmistakable style of the COS winery.
Vintage Details
The 2017 vintage was characterized by a dry climate and a regular harvest, which ensured healthy and perfectly ripe grapes. The contained yields per hectare favored an intense aromatic concentration, with an ideal balance between freshness and power. The vintage stands out for its ability to offer complexity and pleasantness immediately, but with excellent prospects for evolution over time.
Winemaking and Aging
The Delle Fontane is vinified in cement tanks, where fermentations occur spontaneously thanks to indigenous yeasts, thus best preserving the purity of the fruit. This is followed by patient aging: first in amphorae, which allow the wine to breathe and soften the tannins without imparting tertiary aromas, then in large wooden barrels, which complete the refinement by enriching the aromatic profile and harmonizing the structure. This dual process allows for a wine that is deep but never excessive, elegant, and perfectly balanced.
Tasting Notes
Color
The Cerasuolo di Vittoria Classico DOCG 'Delle Fontane' 2017 Magnum - COS presents a brilliant ruby red color with garnet reflections, indicative of its natural evolution and the good ripeness of the grapes. The clarity and chromatic vibrancy anticipate its freshness and vitality.
Nose
The nose opens with aromas of ripe cherry, pomegranate, and small red fruits, accompanied by notes of marzipan, sweet spices, and mineral touches. The aromatic complexity grows in the glass, revealing hints of Mediterranean herbs and a slight balsamic nuance that gives depth and charm.
Taste
On the palate, it is elegant and luminous: the sip is full, yet balanced by lively acidity and fine, polished tannins. The finish is long and savory, with a pleasant fruity and slightly spicy return. It is a wine that combines body and freshness with extraordinary naturalness, demonstrating the class that distinguishes the best Cerasuolo di Vittoria.
Food Pairings for Cerasuolo di Vittoria Classico DOCG 'Delle Fontane' 2017 Magnum - COS
Versatile and gastronomic, this wine lends itself to many pairings thanks to its balance between structure and fragrant acidity. A perfect companion for traditional Mediterranean dishes, it pairs best with:
- First courses with meat or eggplant sauces, such as pasta alla norma;
- White meats and light roasts;
- Medium-aged cheeses;
- Dishes based on red tuna or fatty fish, typical of Sicilian cuisine.
The Magnum version fully enhances sharing at the table, making it ideal for dinners with friends or special occasions.
Storage and Aging: How to Store Cerasuolo di Vittoria Classico DOCG 'Delle Fontane' 2017 Magnum - COS
To maintain the intact quality of the Cerasuolo di Vittoria Classico DOCG 'Delle Fontane' 2017 Magnum - COS, it is advisable to store it in a cool environment free from temperature fluctuations, around 16-18°C, with controlled humidity and the bottle lying down to keep the cork elastic. The Magnum, thanks to its larger volume, offers a slower and more harmonious evolution, allowing the wine to refine elegantly over time.
This Cerasuolo di Vittoria can easily be stored for over 10 years, gaining complexity and depth. It is a wine that offers satisfaction both today and in the future, for those who wish to discover the authentic evolution of a great Sicilian red signed by COS.
What
The History of Cos Winery Cos Winery has its roots in Sicilian winemaking tradition, skillfully blending heritage and innovation. Founded in the heart of Sicily, this winery stands out for its commitment to preserving local winemaking traditions, while integrating modern techniques that enhance t...
How to open and best serve Cerasuolo di Vittoria Classico DOCG 'Delle Fontane' 2017 Magnum - COS
1. Bottle positioning
Before opening Cerasuolo di Vittoria Classico DOCG 'Delle Fontane' 2017 Magnum - COS, it is important to position the bottle upright for at least half a day, to allow the wine's natural sediments to settle at the bottom. If it has been stored on its side, move it gently to avoid disturbing the residue.
2. Ideal serving temperature
This Sicilian wine expresses its best at a serving temperature between 16°C and 18°C. To achieve the right aromatic balance, leave the bottle in a cool environment or use an ice bucket with temperature-controlled water before opening.
3. Opening the bottle
The Magnum of Cerasuolo di Vittoria Classico DOCG 'Delle Fontane' 2017 requires a little care. Follow these steps:
- Cut the capsule below the ring along the bottle neck's edge.
- Clean the neck and cork with a cloth to remove any residue.
- Gently insert the corkscrew and slowly extract the cork, avoiding sudden jerks.
If the cork proves fragile due to the wine's age, use a two-pronged cork puller (also known as an "Ah-So") to extract it without risk.
4. Inspection and first taste
Once opened, observe the cork: it should be moist and intact. Pour a small amount of wine into a glass and gently smell it. Clean, fruity aromas indicate good preservation. If the wine shows notes of cork taint or oxidation, it is best not to decant.
5. Decanting and aeration
Cerasuolo di Vittoria Classico DOCG 'Delle Fontane' 2017 Magnum - COS is a complex and evolving wine that benefits from proper aeration. Therefore:
- Slowly pour the wine into a clean decanter, avoiding dragging sediments from the bottom of the bottle.
- Allow the wine to aerate for about 45–60 minutes before serving, to allow the typical cherry, spice, and earthy notes to fully express themselves.
6. Serving
Use large red wine glasses that promote aromatic perception. Pour the wine up to one-third of the glass to allow aeration. Serve with structured dishes based on white meat, lamb, or aged cheeses, enhancing the typicality of Cerasuolo di Vittoria and its elegance.
7. Storage after opening
If not consumed entirely, reseal the bottle with an airtight stopper and store it in the refrigerator or a cool, dark place. It is advisable to finish the Magnum within 48 hours of opening. Before serving it again, bring the wine to its ideal temperature to best appreciate its characteristics.