JM 1ST APPROACH

Near the western tip of Sicily, the vineyards of Erice rise steeply above the ancient city of Trapani. Mandoleto is inspired by the groves of Almond trees (Mandorlo) that flower in spring, providing a dash of beauty to this dramatic landscape.

On the lower slopes, the region’s warm Mediterranean climate is moderated by cooling sea breezes to provide an ideal location for Sicily’s finest red wine – Nero d’Avola.
A ripe and expressive wine balanced by savoury complexity, Mandoleto Nero d’Avola is the ideal companion for richly flavoured cuisine.

Did my usual round of wine tasting of an evening the other night, cooked some pasta, and this was the wine I chose to have a glass of with my dinner. Just noted that I must have had a mishap with my iPad as the note ends after one line, with a comma. Never fear, I’ll just make the rest up.  Importer: Fourth Wave Wine Partners

It’s lighter style and none the worse for it – the ultimate weekday refreshing red (don’t quote me on that). Red fruit, blood plum, black jellybean with a subtle nut and dried herb flavour. It’s fresh and balanced with fine dry tannin and a good clean finish. Drinks beautifully and has that bit of Nero d’Avola charisma as a point of difference. Rated : 90 Points Winefront.com.au

For this bargain Nero d’Avola he took his wing-man Corey Ryan (ex-McWilliam’s) to do the final blend and advise on bottling with winemaker Giacoma Fazio. It’s all dried herbs, leather and black fruits with a granitic mineral edge, the palate is a lively mix of berries and savoury tannins with lively acidity. Not surprisingly it’s easy to drink with a spicy imprint on the finish. Another impressive import with bags of bright personality that begs for food. WiningPom