From: Sicily, Italy

Varietal: Nero d'Avola

Cantine Birgi was founded in 1960 on the west side of Sicily, close to the city of Marsala (Trapani province), by a group of winemakers dedicated to the rich history and traditions of the territory (ubiquitous & cliché, but true).

This is a dry red made from 100% Nero d’Avola. The grapes were harvested at perfect aromatic and polyphenolic maturation. The clusters were destemmed and fermented on the skins for 8-10 days at 68-72 °F. The resulting wine underwent malolactic fermentation and was aged for six months sur lie before bottling.

Tasting Notes: This wine has a deep garnet color with layered aromas of dark cherry and garrigue (think of thyme, rosemary, sage). The palate generously offers dark fruit, black raspberry, and hints of oak. This is a charming, medium-bodied wine with ripe fruit, subtle spices, and a refreshing finish.

Pairing: This wine plays well off the tomato/cheese/eggplant trifecta of southern Italian cuisine in any form. It also goes really well with roasted and grilled red meat.