2014 Feudo Marccari Saia Nero d’ Avola from Sicily
The Winery
Dr. Antonio Moretti besides owning Feudo Maccari in Sicily, also has Tenuta Sette Ponti near Arezzo and Poderi Orma in Bolgheri. Dr. Moretti and his daughter purchased several small properties in Sicily near the town of Noto, southeastern portion of the island. These older vineyards are located about 1 mile from the sea which provides cooling breezes, which mitigates the searing heat in southern Sicily. The vines are “alberello” (literally meaning tree-like) and are head pruned. The estate produces Nero d’Avola, Grillo as well as two reserve wines Saia from d’Avola and Maharis from Syrah.
The Wine
This 2014 Saia is opaque deep cherry red in color. It is a light viscosity, but do not be fooled as to its depth! On the nose and palate, a combination of red cherry, spices and oak are the first hints of what is to develop. Plum, blueberries and pepper are balanced with an underlying minerality from the volcanic and limestone soil. The finish was long and “woody from oak” with smooth tannins and a crisp acidity. This wine has received 93 points from James Suckling which is remarkable for a $30-32 wine! The wine is aged 12-14 in oak and 6 months in the bottle before release.
The Food Pairing
The meal last evening was Chicken Parmesan with Bucatini pasta. A homemade Salsa di Pomodoro recipe from our friend Darlene Besst, made the meal exquisite. The chicken and pasta was topped off with the sauce and fresh parmesan. The dish was accompanied with steamed broccoli. The acidity in the wine was a perfect match for the acid in the tomato based sauce.
Sláinte,
Michael
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https://www.feudomaccari.it/
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