Terre Siciliance Leggermente Appassite

The "Terre Siciliane Leggermente Appassite" is a wine from the Sicilian region of Italy. The term "Leggermente Appassite" refers to a wine made using a partial drying process of the grapes, which concentrates the flavors and aromas. This method is akin to the "appassimento" technique but is done in a lighter or more moderate fashion.

Here are the typical ingredients and details for this wine:

Ingredients and Information:

• Grapes:
  • The wine is likely made from indigenous Sicilian grape varieties, such as:
    • Nero d'Avola: A signature red grape of Sicily known for its rich, fruity flavors and deep color.
    • Frappato: A lighter, aromatic red grape often used in blends for added freshness and floral notes.
    • Other regional varieties may also be included, such as Syrah or Cataratto (in some cases, blends with white grapes can occur).
• Winemaking Process:
  • Leggermente Appassite: The term "leggermente appassite" means "slightly dried," referring to the process of partially drying the grapes before fermentation. This method helps to concentrate the sugars and flavors in the fruit, enhancing the body, complexity, and aroma of the wine.
  • The drying process typically takes place in a controlled environment, allowing the grapes to lose some water content, intensifying the flavors and creating a richer wine profile.
  • After the drying process, the grapes are fermented, typically in stainless steel or wooden containers, and aged for a period of time to develop further complexity.

Wine Characteristics:

• Wine Style:
  • The wine is usually a dry red (though some white variations might exist).
  • It is typically medium to full-bodied due to the concentration of flavors from the drying process.
• Flavor Profile:
  • Aromas: Ripe red and dark fruits like cherry, plum, and blackberry, often with hints of dried fruit, herbs, and subtle spices from the partial drying.
  • Taste: Rich and velvety with balanced acidity and smooth tannins. The drying technique may contribute a bit of sweetness to the fruit profile, but the wine retains freshness.
  • Finish: The finish is typically smooth with lingering fruit flavors and a soft mouthfeel.

Alcohol Content:

• Typically, wines like this tend to have an alcohol content of 13-14% ABV.

Food Pairing:

• This wine pairs well with rich Mediterranean cuisine, such as:
  • Grilled meats (lamb, pork, or steak)
  • Pasta with tomato-based sauces
  • Pizza with hearty toppings
  • Aged cheeses
  • Roasted vegetables or dishes with a balsamic reduction.

Decanting:

• Decanting: Although decanting isn't always necessary for lighter wines, for a slightly more structured wine like "Leggermente Appassite," decanting can help aerate the wine, especially if it’s young or has strong tannins. Decant for 30 minutes to an hour before serving to allow the wine to open up and reveal its full complexity.

Award:

• Luca Maroni 98 Points