If this had been about a French varietal - say, Piquepoul (esp. Picpoul de Pinet) there would have been contention instead of a well-deserved and recieved love-in. Beckham in Oregon is now producing amphora wines; and producing the amphorae for other producers. Let's see if they can Blend it Like Beckham..."
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Let me also note that Vittoria, Sicily is both the place where he was born and the current home of the noted Italian sculptor Arturo DiModica most famous for his 3 1/2 ton bronze "Charging Bull" at Bowling Green, at the southern tip of Broadway, Lower Manhattan, New York City. Arguably the most famous work of sculpture on public display outdoors anywhere on Earth.
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I was formally introduced to the wines of Sicily during VinItaly 2004. We were able to meet and taste the wines of many estates including Donnafugata, which quickly became a favorite! Nero D'Avola and Grillo are two of the indigenous grapes of Sicily that were made into wines of impressive flavor and nuance. The wines of Terre Nere also became popular in our home. Prices have increased as the popularity, quality, and distribution of Sicilian wines has improved, though they are still are more affordable than the reds of Barolo and Barbaresco. Exploring the wines of Sicily will be richly rewarded!
“It’s stupid not to be organic in Sicily,” Ms. Occhipinti said. “We have the perfect climate.”
And so do we in California, in many places. Thanks for highlighting this aspect of Occipinti's vines.
Her wines are quite popular at hipster restaurants in the Bay Area. And available at Vintage Berkeley, where I've been getting them by the case.
Nice to see the Sicily love extend to those outside of Etna. This article was long overdue! Thanks for shining the light on her and this part of Sicily.
And so do we in California, in many places. Thanks for highlighting this aspect of Occipinti's vines.
Her wines are quite popular at hipster restaurants in the Bay Area. And available at Vintage Berkeley, where I've been getting them by the case.
Nice to see the Sicily love extend to those outside of Etna. This article was long overdue! Thanks for shining the light on her and this part of Sicily.
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On a visit to Sicily three years ago, we drank nothing but Sicilian wines. We were never disappointed!
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Enthusiastically recommend the Valle dell'Acate Cerasuolo and Frappato as terrific value versions of these wonderful wines.
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I spent 4 1/2 weeks riding my bicycle and drinking around southern Italy this year. The Sicilian wine was great! I would recommend a visit to the Aeolian Islands, for the fresh and abundant seafood and for the wines made on Salina Island. Salina is a small place and you have to get close to it to find the wine. Salina makes a "well known" white, but they also make a delicious red that goes well with seafood.
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You certainly nailed this one, Eric. After reading about Occhipinti's wine, we went to our favorite wine store and found it. We've tasted many, many wines but Arianna's 2014 Il Frappato was a revelation. Ethereal, aromatic and oh so lovely in the bouche. It was so impressive the first night but even moreso the following evening when we finished the bottle. Thanks for the tip.
Don and Petie Kladstrup
Don and Petie Kladstrup
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I have been buying Frappato from Cerasuolo di Vittoria for the past 5 years from Garnett Wines on Lex and 68th.
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Eric Asimov did it again, great article thx ! The Occhipinti SP68 red is a delight !
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Every timer I go to Europe I am served table wine that is really very good and it is not expensive. I do not seem to be able to duplicate that experience here. No, I am not an expert, but do know quite a bit and believe I have a reasonable palate.
A simple observation only.
A simple observation only.
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Where can we buy these wines in the US? Great article!
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Italian Wine Merchants would be a great place to start. Otherwise, if you have a local boutique wine shop, see if they either carry the wines or will bring them in for you. I've had wines from each of these producers, and they're phenomenal!
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Mr. Rizzo's wines are imported to the US by Selectionaturel. If you write to Mr. Mollo, I am certain he will help guide you to a place to purchase. Ms. Occhipinti is imported by Louis Dressner. I am certain that they would also be happy to direct you to a place of purchase. Highly recommended wines.
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Apologies, a correction to my response... Ms. Occhipinti's wines are imported by David Bowler in NY.
A wonderful account of another wine region in Sicily. And not only about its splendid bounty, but also about the people--or as you say, the artists--that cultivate it. Sicily is magnificent, not only because of its history and food and viticulture, but also because of Sicilians like these that you've covered. They make it remarkable. Thank you!
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