Centopassi, “Cimento di Perricone” Sicilia DOC

This soulful Sicilian red, somewhat reminiscent of dark-fruited varieties such as Syrah and Petit Verdot, is crafted from a native Sicilian cultivar, Perricone, grown at high elevations in the Alto Belice Corleonese—a high plateau south of Palermo, near the town of Corleone. It is part of an exceptional lineup of wines produced by Centopassi, a cooperative winemaking outfit farming vineyard land that was confiscated from convicted mafia members. Perricone was traditionally a “blending” variety for use with Nero d’Avola, but this ’17 makes a strong case for showcasing it on its own: High-elevation (400 meters), certified organic viticulture is the secret to this wine’s combination of depth, structure, and energy—it’s a really delicious and beautifully balanced red full of dark-berry fruit notes balanced by deep minerality. Just 300 cases produced!