ZISOLA NERO D'AVOLA 2006

The Mazzei family (Castello di Fonterutoli and Tenuta Belguardo) from Tuscany has a fantastic new wine from Sicily called Zisola. This Nero d’Avola 2006 ($21.47) is a picture-perfect example of all that is good in Sicily. With the ideal growing conditions (lots of warm sunshine by day, cool coastal breezes at night), the end result is a deep, dark red concoction of black cherry, cassis, and violet notes intermingled with lots of black and red fruit flavors, dark chocolate, cinnamon and earth tones. It’s a beautiful expression of the grape, with supple tannins, balanced acidity and a slightly dry, but lingering finish. It’s terrific with spicy meats and pastas.