Sicily has been showcasing extraordinary dynamism, earning prominent positions in both the Italian and international markets. This achievement extends beyond the realm of great red wines, as the region has also gained recognition for its high-quality white wines (more than half of the 27 Tre Bicchieri awarded to the region are whites).
While whites make a significant impact, reds continue to hold their ground. The 11 awarded reds are characterized by their personality, richness, longevity, and delightful drinkability even when young. The realm of "natural" wines, if we may call them so, is flourishing on the island, offering a range of labels that not only meet the expected criteria but also present impeccably executed experiences for even the most discerning tasters. This resurgence can likely be attributed to a new generation of vineyard and cellar professionals. This generation is not only highly skilled technically but also possesses clear ideals and objectives, a combination destined for success.
Nearly two-thirds of the awards go to wines from Mount Etna, confirming the exceptional potential of this terroir, which manages to surprise us annually with memorable tastings. However, the entire Sicilian wine industry is advancing towards excellence, embracing quality in every style, in every region, regardless of the size of the wineries, be it a large cooperative, a small artisan vigneron, or an internationally renowned producer.
Tre Bicchieri 2024: the best red wines of Sicily away from Mount Etna
Here, we focus on 4 red wines made from native and international grape varieties that have been awarded Tre Bicchieri in the 2024 Vini d'Italia guide by Gambero Rosso.
Cavadiserpe Mandrarossa 2021 - Cantine Settesoli. This unprecedented blend of Merlot and Alicante Bouschet from Cantine Settesoli is characterized by notes of currants, blueberries, pomegranate, iris, as well as balsamic herbs and yellow spices. It has a well-weighted palate, finely balanced between fruit and tannins, with a lingering finish. Settesoli, with its 6,000-hectare vineyard, stands out as one of Italy's largest cooperative realities, renowned for its reliable and high-quality production.
Cerasuolo di Vittoria Cl. 2021 - Tenuta Bastonaca. A refined and elegant blend of Nero d'Avola and Frappato, the Cerasuolo di Vittoria Cl. 2021 from Tenuta Bastonaca exudes fresh red fruit tones, wildflowers, and aromatic herbs on the nose. The palate is elegant and savory, refreshed by acidity, concluding with notes of spices and licorice. Founded by Giovanni Calcaterra and his wife Silvana Raniolo, Tenuta Bastonaca is dedicated to producing wines of exceptional quality.
Faro 2021 - Le Casematte. This blend of Nerello Mascalese, Nerello Cappuccio, Nocera, and Nero d'Avola from Le Casematte is complex and layered, offering clear scents of red fruit, Mediterranean scrub, violet, and a delicate mineral-iodine note. The palate is slightly acidic, juicy, and spicy with a beautifully persistent finish. In just a short decade, the cellar of Gianfranco Sabbatino and Andrea Barzagli has become one of the most representative realities in eastern Sicily, featuring a range of wines known for their rare pleasantness, cleanliness, and strong territorial character, all with an excellent value for money.
Moro di Testa 2020 - Feudi del Pisciotto. A Syrah of rare elegance and balance, the Moro di Testa 2020 from Feudi del Pisciotto is characterized by nuances of small blackberries, spices, mint, and Mediterranean scrub. In the mouth, it is powerful yet agile, in perfect balance between tannins and fruit, with a long, fine, and balsamic finish.
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