Yorkshire Post - YP Magazine

Here are some new-style Sicilian wines to try...

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the Mount Etna region, this is a stylish red grape with some genetic links to Sangiovese. This variety ripens late and builds a good level of alcohol with fresh acidity and bright red-fruit flavours.

Nero d’Avola: Sicily’s most widely planted red grape variety with a full body, deep colour and ageing potential. It has a taste of wild plums with good acidity, rounded tannins and dark savoury notes. It ages well developing complexity and depth.

As well as encouragin­g the use of local traditiona­l grapes, Stefano Girelli is starting to use traditiona­l winemaking methods. He has installed some terracotta amphorae for fermentati­on which add complexity to the wines.

Santa Tresa Grillo Spumante Brut, House of Townend, £11.99: Made sparkling in much the same way as Prosecco, but most importantl­y, from Grillo grapes, and fermented right through to Brut, so it is dry, this is a bright, floral wine that is perfect as an aperitif or poured alongside prawns and salmon.

Nostru Carricante 2018, Cortese Estate, House of Townend, £12.99, currently down to £10.99: A new listing at Townend, hence the bargain price, this white wine has lively citrus and herbal notes with a streak of minerality on the finish. Team with grilled sea bass.

Rosé di Santa Tresa, Majestic, £10.99 on a mix-six deal: Made from a blend of Nero d’Avola and Frappato, this is a delicate, delicious cherry-filled wine. Bone-dry and balanced, it makes a perfect aperitif.

Santa Tresa Frappato Red 2019, Field & Fawcett, £10.95: This looks like a light Pinot Noir but tastes quite different. With raspberry and wild strawberry notes, plus a distinct edge of cranberry, it is a delicious fruity, lively wine that can be enjoyed with roast chicken or goose. Chill it in summer and pour alongside a tuna tartare, especially if there is basil on the plate.

Nostru Nerello Mascalese 2019. Cortese Estate, Yorkshire Vintners, £12: Bright ruby-red in colour with red fruits, a touch of spice and silky tannins. Perfect with grilled lamb.

Santa Tresa Nero d’Avola 2019, Rupe Secca, House of Townend, £8.99: A deep-coloured wine with flavours of plums, herbs and even a note of chocolate. This is a well-structured wine to go with casseroles.

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