When it comes to bold, distinctive red wines, Nero d'Avola stands out as Sicily’s pride and joy. If you're a fan of rich, fruity, and complex reds, this grape variety is going to appeal to you. In this guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about Nero d'Avola, from its origins to tasting notes, and why it has become one of our best selling canned wines.
What is Nero d’Avola?
Nero d'Avola (pronounced ne-roh dah-voh-lah) is Sicily’s most famous indigenous red grape. The name translates to "Black of Avola," referring to the dark-skinned grape and the town of Avola in southeastern Sicily, where it originated. Nero d'Avola thrives in Sicily’s hot, sun-drenched climate, producing wines that range from medium-bodied to full-bodied, with a characteristic boldness that’s hard to miss.
A Brief History of Nero d’Avola
Nero d'Avola has been grown in Sicily for centuries, though it remained largely unknown outside the island until the late 20th century. Historically, it was often used in blends to add colour and body to other wines, especially those from Italy’s mainland. However, as winemaking techniques improved and interest in indigenous varieties grew, Nero d'Avola began to shine on its own. Today, it's celebrated as one of Italy's greatest single-varietal wines.
Tasting Notes: What to Expect
One of the most exciting things about Nero d'Avola is its versatility. Depending on where and how it’s grown, the wines can vary from lighter, fruit-forward expressions to rich, full-bodied examples with layers of complexity.
Here are some key aromas and flavours to look out for:
- Fruit: The primary flavours in Nero d'Avola are dark and luscious fruits like black cherry, plum, and blackberry. In warmer climates, you might notice these flavours becoming more jammy and concentrated.
- Spice and Earth: Alongside the fruit, expect a nice kick of spice, such as black pepper, licorice, or even tobacco. There’s often a subtle earthiness, reminiscent of Mediterranean herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Floral Notes: Some Nero d'Avola wines exhibit floral hints, like violet or dried rose petals, adding a lovely touch of elegance.
- Acidity and Tannins: Nero d'Avola generally has good acidity, which gives it a fresh feel despite its robust nature. The tannins can range from soft and silky to firm and gripping, depending on how the wine is made.
Nero d’Avola’s Flavour Profile at a Glance:
- Body: Medium to full
- Acidity: Medium to high
- Tannins: Medium to high
- Alcohol: Moderate to high (typically 13-14.5%)
- Fruit flavours: Black cherry, plum, blackberry, raspberry
- Other flavours: Licorice, black pepper, tobacco, Mediterranean herbs
- Aging potential: 5-10 years for high-quality examples
Food Pairings
Nero d'Avola is a versatile wine that pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes, thanks to its balance of fruit, acidity, and tannin. Here are some food pairings to consider:
- Grilled Meats: The boldness of Nero d’Avola stands up well to grilled or barbecued meats like steak, lamb, or pork.
- Hearty Pasta: Pair it with rich pasta dishes like lasagna, Bolognese, or pasta alla Norma (a Sicilian specialty made with eggplant and tomatoes).
- Aged Cheeses: Try it with aged cheeses like Pecorino or Parmigiano Reggiano to enhance the wine’s fruit and spice.
- Vegetarian: The wine’s earthy notes complement roasted vegetables, mushroom risottos, and Mediterranean dishes packed with herbs and spices.
Nero d’Avola’s Growing Regions
While Nero d'Avola is synonymous with Sicily, not all regions of the island produce the same style. Coastal areas tend to produce wines with more elegance and freshness, while inland regions (with hotter climates) offer richer, more concentrated versions. Some of the best-known subregions for Nero d’Avola include:
- Syracuse and Noto: Known for more delicate, perfumed expressions.
- Caltanissetta: Wines from this inland region tend to be more robust and concentrated.
- Menfi: Cooler coastal influences create wines with higher acidity and freshness.
Nero d’Avola and Organic Winemaking
Many Sicilian producers are moving towards organic and sustainable practices, and Nero d'Avola is at the forefront of this movement. Thanks to Sicily’s dry climate, vineyards here naturally face fewer pests and diseases, making organic farming a practical choice. Organic Nero d'Avola wines often showcase the purest expression of the grape, with vibrant fruit and minimal intervention.
At Vinca, we make utterly delicious Nero d'Avola, served in 187ml cans so you can try this delicious variety without having to open a whole bottle. Why not try it now?
If you're in a hurry, you can also add a few cans to your next shop at Tesco. Either in-store or online. Shop now.