Santa Tresa, Frappato ‘Rina Russa’ 2022

(2023) This organic Frappato from Sicily comes from distinctive red soils ('Rina Russa'), the grape native to this south-easterly part of the island. It spends 4-6 months in stainless steel tanks with regular stirring of the fine lees. Best served lightly chilled, Frappato makes a very pale coloured wine, almost like a Tavel or other very dark rosés. It is so aromatic: floral for sure, with an almost geranium perfume, some chestnut and bright red fruits. In the mouth a strawberry sundae sweetness, but it is all fruit, not residual sugar, a hallmark of this variety. A layering of spicy, subtle tannin and elegant framework of acidity balance that pretty sweetness to finish with some depth. Something very much out of the ordinary and could be a summer sensation. Watch the video for more information and food-matching ideas.