What kind of wine is Mamertino DOC 2020 - Planeta?

The Mamertino DOC 2020 - Planeta is a captivating red wine, originating from the extreme northeastern tip of Sicily, in the Capo Milazzo area. Here, the Planeta winery cultivates two historic indigenous grape varieties of the island: Nero d’Avola and Nocera. The result is a wine with a Mediterranean profile, featuring a full yet balanced body, encapsulating the tradition and modernity of Sicilian winemaking.

This label belongs to the Mamertino Controlled Designation of Origin (DOC), one of the oldest on the island – already known in the time of the Mamertini and mentioned by Pliny the Elder – and today shines as an example of territorial enhancement by the Planeta family. The sip is characterized by softness and a lively yet harmonious tannic texture, perfect for those who appreciate intense but not excessively structured red wines.

Vintage details

The 2020 vintage was particularly balanced in the Milazzo area: a mild climate, with good diurnal temperature variations and constant sea breezes, allowed for gradual and complete ripening of the grapes. Spring rains ensured sufficient water reserves to face the warmer weeks, while the harvest, which took place between late September and early October, yielded healthy, concentrated, and aromatically rich fruits. All these conditions favored the birth of an elegant, round wine with an intense territorial personality.

Vinification and aging

Nero d’Avola and Nocera grapes are hand-harvested and vinified separately to enhance the peculiarities of each varietal. After destemming, fermentation occurs in stainless steel with a maceration of about 14 days on the skins, useful for gently extracting color and tannins. This is followed by approximately 12 months of aging in oak barriques, which rounds out the tannins without overpowering the fruit, and subsequently a short period in bottle before commercial release.

Tasting notes

The Mamertino DOC 2020 - Planeta offers a complete sensory experience, ideal for those who wish to discover one of the most authentic expressions of Sicilian red wines.

Color

It presents in the glass with a brilliant ruby red color with violet reflections, indicating its youth and vibrancy. The luminosity and chromatic density anticipate a wine with a strong character and Mediterranean personality.

Nose

The nose is broad and generous: hints of ripe red fruits – such as cherry and plum – emerge, combined with delicate spicy and balsamic notes. With aeration, nuances of licorice and black pepper are revealed, making the bouquet complex yet harmonious.

Taste

On the palate, it is full, soft, and savory. The tannins (the natural substances that give the wine structure and a slightly dry sensation on the palate) are silky and well-integrated. The taste profile is balanced by a pleasant freshness that invites another sip. The finish is long, with a fruity and slightly spicy aftertaste that confirms the wine's elegance.

What to pair with Mamertino DOC 2020 - Planeta

The Mamertino DOC 2020 - Planeta is an eclectic wine, perfect for accompanying traditional Sicilian dishes and beyond. Its balanced structure makes it an ideal companion for:

• Flavorful first courses such as Pasta alla Norma or meat ragù;
• Grilled red meats or light roasts;
• Semi-aged cheeses with an intense flavor;
• Dishes based on red tuna or grilled swordfish, typical of the Messina area.

Thanks to its balanced profile, it also serves as an excellent all-meal wine, perfect for those seeking a versatile and highly enjoyable bottle.

Storage and aging: how to store Mamertino DOC 2020 - Planeta wine

To best preserve the qualities of Mamertino DOC 2020 - Planeta, it is important to store it in a dark, cool place with controlled humidity, preferably between 14 and 16°C. The bottle should be kept horizontally, so that the cork remains constantly moist and ensures an airtight seal over time.

While enjoyable to drink immediately, this wine can evolve for 3-5 years, further refining its aromatic profile and rounding out its tannic components. With proper cellar aging, it develops more complex notes of ripe fruit, sweet spices, and subtle tertiary nuances that amplify its depth.