What kind of wine is Sicilia Nero d’Avola DOC “Cartagho” 2021 - Mandrarossa?

Sicilia Nero d’Avola DOC “Cartagho” 2021 - Mandrarossa is an intense and harmonious red wine that tells the story of the most authentic part of Menfi, a symbolic location for quality Sicilian viticulture. Born from the winery's most representative vineyards, this wine is the deepest expression of the Nero d'Avola grape, cultivated on windy and sunny soils a few kilometers from the sea. In the glass, it presents itself as a structured red, full-bodied but elegant, combining power, softness, and Mediterranean notes.

Vintage details

2021 was a year of great balance for Sicilian viticulture. After a mild spring and a dry summer, the Nero d'Avola grapes reached ideal ripeness, with a perfect aromatic concentration and well-balanced tannins. The harvest, carried out by hand in the first weeks of September, allowed only the best bunches to be selected, yielding a wine with an intense and authentic profile.

Winemaking and aging

The winemaking of Sicilia Nero d’Avola DOC “Cartagho” 2021 - Mandrarossa follows an approach that maximizes the purity of the grape variety. After destemming, the must ferments in steel tanks at a controlled temperature for about 6-8 days, accompanied by a maceration that allows for a balanced extraction of color and tannins. This is followed by an aging period of approximately 12 months in French oak barriques, where the wine acquires complexity, softness, and spicy notes. Further resting in the bottle completes its journey, making it ready to be enjoyed.

Tasting Notes

Sicilia Nero d’Avola DOC “Cartagho” 2021 - Mandrarossa is a wine that captivates with its richness and harmony of the senses, from sight to palate.

Color

Deep ruby red with purplish reflections, clear and luminous, anticipating the aromatic density and concentration that distinguish it.

Nose

The nose opens with intense aromas of ripe red fruits, such as black cherry and plum, followed by delicate nuances of vanilla, cocoa, and sweet spices imparted by the wood aging. Balsamic notes and a mineral hint also emerge, completing its complexity.

Taste

On the palate, it is full and enveloping, with soft and well-integrated tannins that give structure and a long, pleasant finish. The rich and fruity finish leaves a warm and velvety sensation, typical of a great Sicilian Nero d'Avola.

Which dishes to pair with Sicilia Nero d’Avola DOC “Cartagho” 2021 - Mandrarossa

This wine is perfect for accompanying great traditional Mediterranean recipes, thanks to its balanced structure and decisive character. Ideal with:

• Grilled or roasted red meats
• Beef stews and braised dishes
• Aged hard cheeses
• Rich dishes with meat sauces or game

Also excellent when paired with spicy or intensely flavored dishes, where the wine's softness enhances the flavors without overpowering them.

Storage and aging: how to store Sicilia Nero d’Avola DOC “Cartagho” 2021 - Mandrarossa wine

To maintain the quality of Sicilia Nero d’Avola DOC “Cartagho” 2021 - Mandrarossa, it is advisable to store it in a cool, dark place with controlled humidity, away from vibrations and heat sources. The ideal temperature is between 14 and 16°C. This wine has excellent aging potential: it can evolve in the bottle for over 8-10 years, developing more complex hints of spices, leather, and tobacco over time, without losing its natural elegance. It is recommended to uncork the bottle at least half an hour before serving and to enjoy it at a temperature of approximately 18°C to fully appreciate its aromas and structure.