The Morgante winery exemplifies one family’s dedication to harnessing five generations of viticultural expertise. In 1994, Antonio Morgante, alongside his sons Carmelo and Giovanni, decided to vinify their own grapes instead of sending them to the local cooperative as they had until that point. This marked the beginning of their mission to achieve the best results with indigenous varietals while embracing innovation.
In 1997, the family enlisted renowned oenologist Riccardo Cotarella, whose mastery in crafting exceptional wines from Italy’s native grapes has been pivotal. Situated in southern Sicily, Morgante’s 200 hectares of vineyards and almond groves lie between 350 and 550 metres above sea level over a 30 km radius around the town of Grotte. This hilly region, with its Mediterranean climate and soils ranging from clay and calcareous to marl, is ideal for viticulture.
Nero d’Avola is the cornerstone of Sicilian wines, and Morgante has always championed this varietal, a passion and vision shared with Riccardo Cotarella. The family rigorously controls all aspects of production, from vineyard to cellar, ensuring the highest quality in every wine they produce.
Morgante Nero d'Avola Sicilia DOC 2020
Vineyards:
The vineyards are located in the southern hills of Sicily, near Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples, at altitudes of 350-550 meters. The white calcareous soils, with a mix of clay, offer an ideal environment for Nero d’Avola. The Mediterranean climate, along with careful vine management, allows the grapes to reach optimal ripeness while retaining freshness and acidity.
Winemaking:
The grapes are carefully hand-harvested and fermented in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures. After 20 days of skin contact to extract color and structure, the wine is aged in stainless steel and concrete vats, preserving the natural fruit expression and complexity without overwhelming oak influence. 14.5%.
Appearance:
Deep purple with ruby hues.
Nose:
Elegant aromas of blackberries, ripe blueberries, and blackcurrant, layered with hints of wild herbs, tar, and dark chocolate.
Palate:
Medium-bodied and velvety, with fine-grained tannins and bright acidity. The palate opens with flavours of wild berries and blackcurrant, leading to notes of anise, thyme, and a subtle touch of tar. The finish is long and balanced, with a lingering dark chocolate nuance.
Food Pairing:
Pair with grilled lamb, roasted pork, mature cheeses, or cold cuts. For an at-home pairing, enjoy with a hearty beef stew or a charcuterie board.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve at 16-18°C to highlight the wine’s rich fruit and refreshing acidity.
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