Nero d'Avola "Vrucara", Feudo Montoni - 2018

Don't let this unassuming label fool you, this is a wine that has it all: ancient history, ungrafted vines, terroir in spades, and old-school winemaking. Not to mention that after 10 yrs it's drinking beautifully. Feudo Montoni, located 60 miles SE of Palermo, is one of Sicily's oldest wineries, with winemaking dating back to the 1500s. The remoteness spared them from phylloxera in the 1800s so all of their vines are ungrafted. Winemaking too, is old school, with fermentation in cement and 30 days of maceration. You'll find an endless parade of aromas: cherry, blackberry, black licorice, and hints of menthol (from the local vruca bush that gives the wine its name). It's silky smooth on the palate with a rich yet lively concentration of cherry, balsamic, tobacco, and chocolate. A great pair with hearty pasta dishes or sausage.