Arianna Occhipinti 's Siccagno Nero d'Avola is a pure, heartfelt expression of Sicilian Nero d'Avola. Grown on red sand and limestone soils, between Mediterranean heat and night-time coolness, this IGT Sicilia wine captures the essence of the Vittoria terroir with clarity. Made from 35-year-old vines, this Nero d'Avola is organically grown and hand-harvested. Arianna Occhipinti practices natural winemaking with indigenous yeasts, respecting a minimum of intervention to let the fruit and terroir express themselves. Ageing lasts 22 months in Austrian oak barrels, followed by unfiltered bottling.
Philippe Mischler, sommelier at Mundovin :Arianna Occhipinti 's Siccagno skilfully balances solar expression and mineral freshness. This Sicilian Nero d'Avola is a benchmark of restrained power, with a structure that invites ageing. The precision of Arianna Occhipinti's methods makes it an essential reference among the great wines ofIGT Sicilia.
On the nose, Siccagno opens with elegant aromas of wild berries and ripe, even stewed black fruit. Blackberry, black plum, blackcurrant and blueberry intertwine with delicate spicy notes of pepper and licorice, coupled with hints of light tobacco. A few maquis herbs dot this refined bouquet, whose depth and progressive complexity invite tasting.
The palate is of great finesse, with an almost airy tactile feel. The enveloping body glides over tannins polished by ageing with an almost Burgundian softness. However, the resolutely Sicilian aroma quickly reveals itself, with ripe red and black fruit and hints of Mediterranean spices and herbs. The intensity of the fine spices adds freshness to the whole, while noble bitters reminiscent of cocoa give the finish superb length.