What wine is Terre Siciliane Frappato IGT 'FL - Contrada Fossa di Lupo' 2022 - Arianna Occhipinti

The Terre Siciliane Frappato IGT 'FL - Contrada Fossa di Lupo' 2022 - Arianna Occhipinti is an elegant and authentic red wine, a pure expression of the Ragusa territory. It is produced from 100% Frappato grapes, an indigenous Sicilian varietal known for its freshness and its ability to convey the aromatic richness of the soils it grows in. The Fossa di Lupo district, located near Vittoria, is characterized by sandy and calcareous soils that give the wine verve, finesse, and a distinct mineral savoriness.

Vintage Details

2022 was a balanced year in Sicily, marked by a dry climate with ideal temperature variations for the ripening of Frappato. The grapes, hand-picked at full maturity, maintained excellent aromatic concentration and a delicate tannic structure, offering a wine of great harmony and natural drinkability.

Winemaking and Aging

Arianna Occhipinti vinifies the most representative parcels separately to respect the identity of each district. In the case of FL - Fossa di Lupo, spontaneous fermentation occurs in concrete vats with indigenous yeasts, a choice that preserves the purity of the fruit and territorial transparency. Maceration on the skins lasts several weeks, allowing for a calibrated extraction of color and tannin. Aging continues in large, already-used oak barrels, which do not release woody aromas but accompany the wine in a slow and natural evolution, until bottling without filtration.

Tasting Notes

The Terre Siciliane Frappato IGT 'FL - Contrada Fossa di Lupo' 2022 - Arianna Occhipinti tells the story of the lightness and depth of southeastern Sicily in the glass. A red that captivates with its authenticity, ideal for those seeking genuine yet refined wines.

Color

It presents a bright ruby red, with clear garnet reflections, typical of the purest Frappato. The color, not too intense, anticipates the freshness and delicacy of the sip.

Nose

The aroma is intense and seductive: notes of small red fruits – like raspberry and cherry – emerge, followed by floral hints of rose and violet, with slight nuances of earth and Mediterranean spices. The bouquet evolves in the glass, offering complexity without ever becoming heavy.

Palate

On the palate, it is fresh, agile, yet profound. The tannins are fine and perfectly integrated, confirming a delicate extraction. The structure is lean but supported by a vibrant acidity that accompanies a long and clean persistence, with fruity and mineral echoes on the finish.

Pairing Terre Siciliane Frappato IGT 'FL - Contrada Fossa di Lupo' 2022 - Arianna Occhipinti with food

The lightness and freshness of Frappato make it extremely versatile at the table. It pairs well with Mediterranean dishes, particularly:

• Light appetizers and not-too-aged cured meats
• Pasta with fresh tomato sauces or vegetables
• White meats or grilled fatty fish
• Medium-aged cheeses

A perfect wine to accompany a dinner with friends or to discover new pairings with Sicilian land and sea cuisine.

Storage and aging: how to store Terre Siciliane Frappato IGT 'FL - Contrada Fossa di Lupo' 2022 - Arianna Occhipinti

This Frappato best expresses its vibrancy in the first 4-6 years after vintage, but can also offer fascinating evolution for longer, thanks to its structure and careful production. To store it best:

• Keep the wine in a cool, dark place, at a constant temperature between 14°C and 16°C
• Store bottles horizontally to keep the cork moist
• Avoid temperature fluctuations and overly dry or humid environments

Over time, the Terre Siciliane Frappato IGT 'FL - Contrada Fossa di Lupo' 2022 - Arianna Occhipinti evolves in elegance, developing more complex notes of spices and undergrowth, while maintaining its fresh and territorial imprint.