Nero d'Avola

Opulent and fruit-driven with robust tannins, Nero d’Avola is Sicily’s most widely planted red grape variety. Popular throughout Sicily both on its own and in blends, it features alongside Nerello Mascalese, Nerello Cappuccio, and Nocera in full-bodied Faro, and with Frappato in Cerasuolo di Vittoria to produce a light, lively wine.

In the Glass

Nero d’Avola is a bold, powerful wine with relatively high alcohol, moderate acidity, and an affinity for oak. Its flavors and aromas are of dark fruit (like plum, blackberry, and black cherry), peppery spice and sweet cocoa, occasionally accompanied by an earthy or herbal character. Dried fruit flavors are also common due to the hot weather this variety requires to thrive.

Perfect Pairings

Nero d’Avola’s dark, spicy flavors lend it well to richly flavored grilled meat dishes, but can also be a great compliment to simple pizza or pasta.

Sommelier Secret

If you love big, bold wines like Napa Cabernet and Châteauneuf-du-Pape but want to stick to a budget, look no further than Nero d’Avola for a worthy substitute. Even the best examples are often under $20.