Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Decanter
Complex aromas of strawberries, violet and cola with savoury undertones of beetroot. Crisp and crunchy, with a racy acidity.
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James Suckling
Aromas of cranberry and elderberry. Medium-bodied with fine, integrated tannins. Tart and zippy. Drink now.
Founded in 1824, Duca di Salaparuta stands as one of Sicily's most historic and influential wineries, helping elevate the island from bulk-wine production to a respected fine-wine region. The estate cemented its legacy in 1984 with the release of Duca Enrico, Sicily's first 100% Nero d'Avola and the first wine south of Tuscany to earn the Tre Bicchieri Award, marking a turning point in Sicilian wine history. Today, as Sicily's largest private winery, Duca di Salaparuta remains future-focused, championing innovation, sustainability, and cultural stewardship across its three estates, while protecting the balance and longevity of the traditions that define its roots.
Italian Red Wine
While picturesque hillsides, endless coastlines and a favorable climate serve to unify the grape-growing culture of this country. The apparent never-ending world of indigenous grape varieties gives Italy an unexampled charm and allure for its red wines. From the steep inclines of the Alps to the sprawling, warm, coastal plains of the south, red grape varieties thrive throughout.
The kings of Italy, wines like Barolo and Barbaresco (made of Nebbiolo), and Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino (made of Sangiovese), as well as Amarone (mostly Corvina), play center stage for the most lauded, collected and cellar-worthy reds. Less popular but entirely deserving of as much praise are the wines made from Aglianico, Sagrantino and Nerello Mascalese.
For those accustomed to drinking New World reds, the south is the place to start. Grapes like Negroamaro or Primitvo from Puglia and Nero d’Avola from Sicily make soft, ammicable, full-bodied, fruit-dominant wines. Curious palates should be on the lookout for Cannonau (Grenache), Lagrein, Teroldego, Ruché, Freisa, Cesanese, Schiopettino, Rossese and Gaglioppo to name a few.