Tasting note

Aromatic and showing an attractive mix of Nero d'Avola's trademark red cherry and spice and Cabernet Sauvignon's darker fruit notes, this 2009 Tasca d'Almerita 'Cygnus' also shows the leafy and minty nuances that can arise from either grape variety. Oak maturation has added some vanilla to the acerbic spice of Nero d'Avola and is instrumental in pulling the different components of this 2009 'Cygnus' together. Somewhat more refined and substantially less rambunctious than some varietal Nero d'Avola, it seems odd to think of hot climate Cabernet Sauvignon as a softening and restraining influence, although that is precisely the role that it plays here. This 2009 Tasca d'Almerita 'Cygnus' leads with flavours of savoury red cherry and ripe damson before darker plum, cherry and bramble fruits develop through the mid-palate. Medium to full bodied and impressively smooth and almost elegant, this 2009 'Cygnus' shows good acidty and a nicely judged tannin structure as the leafy mint flavours from the nose appear on the finish. Nero d'Avola's often powerful and acerbic spice is constrained to a bit part role here as it bubbles under the lush fruit, as is a coffee nuance derived from maturation. Drinking really nicely already, this 2009 Tasca d'Almerita 'Cygnus' also offers potential for mid-term cellaring. Drink prior to 2019. Score - 89. (independent-wine-review.com, March 22, 2013)

This dry and ruby coloured red showcases a complex nose releasing woody, spicy and fruity scents. You will be charmed with this full-bodied wine revealing a broad texture, fleshy tannins and a long finish.

This rich and delicious red is a blend of Sicily's signature grape variety, Nero d'Avola, and Cabernet Sauvignon. It is packed with dark fruit, wild herb and violet aromas and has enough tannin to stand up to grilled steak.