Tasting Notes – Wines of the Italian Islands 10.16.2024

presented by Joshua Terrell of Sunrise Imports

Palmarès Brut ~ NV ~ [Organic]

Palmarès is a term of Latin origin with the meaning of “worthy of victory”, which indicates the excellence of this sparkling wine, yet another expression of that treasure that is Grillo grapes grown in a vineyard combining the peculiarities of a terroir such as that of the WWF Nature Reserve, from which the winery takes its name, and the influence of the sea and its iodized breezes. Sparkling technique: Martinotti or Charmat method.
Appellation: South-western Sicily, Trapani, San Nicola

Grapes: Grillo 100% – ABV 11%

Tasting notes: A yellow straw color, with persistent, fine bubbles. Rich refined and balanced bouquet, reminiscent of wildflowers and Granny Smith apple. On the palate it is dry, rich, savory and inviting, hints of apricot and pear. Pleasant almondy aftertaste.
Pairings: Excellent with fish and shellfish dishes, ideal to match any special occasion.
Bottles produced: 25,000 from 18 years old vines
Producer:
TENUTA GORGHI TONDI

Meridiano Zibibbo ~ 2020

Born in the vineyards crossed by the 12th meridian, the ideal place for the cultivation of vines and the production of quality wines for millennia. This dry Zibibbo is a clear inheritance, being one of the oldest varieties grown on the island, and able to transfer into the wines notes of citrus and floral hints.

Appellation: South-western Sicily, Trapani, San Nicola

Grapes: Zibibbo 100% – ABV 12%
Tasting notes: Straw yellow with greenish reflections. Enveloping and aromatic, fruity, with notes of almond, apricot, orange blossom, and sage. On the palate it is fragrant, with a perfect balance between acidity and flavor.
Pairings: Ideal as an aperitif, excellent with fish dishes, shellfish, sea urchins and oysters.
Bottles produced: 15,000
Producer: TENUTA GORGHI TONDI

Is Solus Carignano DOC ~ 2022

Is Solus is a Roman fountain located near the old town of Sant’Antioco. The label depicts a mosaic displayed in the archeological town museum, representing two wild beasts drinking from the vase the tree of life arises from.

Appellation: Sant’Anticoco Island

Grapes: Carignano 100% – ABV 13.5%
Tasting notes: Rich ruby color. Nose of intense fine bouquet with fruity and balsamic notes. Feels fresh in the mouth, with fragrant fruit and nice ripe tannins.

Pairings: Try crusty breads and hard cheeses, and cured meats.
Aging:
12 months in barriques and 12 months in bottle.
Awards:
Various high score awards over several vintages
Producer: Sardus Pater

Spanu Cagnulari ~ 2021

The Cagnulari is a red grape vineyard, grown mainly in the province of Sassari. It seems that Spanish people introduced this kind of grape in Sardinia during the period of their domination. This vineyard settled quickly and now it can be defined as a native vine. These grapes come from vineyards situated in “Anglona”, area with limestone soils and at 300 meters above sea level.
Appellation: Sardegna, Italy
Grapes: Cagnulari 100% – ABV 16%
Tasting notes: Has a deep ruby red color with violet highlights. Grapey, intense aroma. Dry, supple and full-bodied.
Pairings: Pairs excellently with red roast meat, game, mature PDO Sardinian pecorino cheese.
Aging: 12 months in barrique, followed by an additional 12 months in bottle.
Producer: Binzamanna