Sicilia Nero D'Avola DOC Flashcards
(15 cards)
Which grape is the most prolific in Sicilia?
Nero D’Avola which is a cornerstone of most of it’s blends.
How is Nero D’Avola bottled in Sicilia?
A large amount under Terre Siciliane IGT but increasing amounts under Sicilia Nero D’Avola DOC, the flexible, regional label.
Where in Sicilia is Nero D’Avola produced?
Throughout the island.
Where are the best examples of Nero D’Avola to be found in Sicilia?
In SE corner. It is believed to have originated from the coastal town of Avola here.
Which DOC south of Avola is well regarded for producing outstanding wines from the Nero D’Avola grape?
Elora DOC around the village of Pachino.
Why does Nero D’Avola thrive in SE Siciilia?
It loves heat and it thrives in the area’s heat retaining, dark soils and basks in the warm and arid growing conditions.
What was Nero D’Avola historically known as?
Calabrese and is still cited as this the National Registry.
What has Nero D’Avola achieved a reputation for?
Reflecting the terroir of where it is planted and in the right hands produces complex and compelling wines?
What growing conditions does Nero D’Avola require to ripen fully? How is it trained?
It requires warm conditions and is often grown close to the ground to absorb the reflected heat from the hot earth.
What particular balance characteristic does the Nero D’Avola grape achieve despite ripening to high sugar levels?
It ripens to high sugar levels but is able to retain refreshing levels of acidity.
What is the blend requirement for Nero D’Avola DOC wines?
Minimum 85% Nero D’Avola.
What is the age requiremnt for a Riserva Nero D’Avola?
Must be aged for two years.
What makes Nero d’Avola DOC wines special?
They can be made in a variety of styles from red-fruited, medium bodied styles to dense, dark and chewy renditions with spice and black fruit.
What is the structure of Nero d’Avola wines?
Body- Medium to full;
Acidity - High;
ABV -typically high;
Tannin - Dense, smooth and soft.
What are the common descriptors of Nero d’Avola wines?
Cherry, plum, blackberry, aromatic herbs and underbrush.
