Alcesti Acasto Frappato Terre Siciliane, 2023
Alcesti Acasto Frappato Terre Siciliane, 2023
- Red Still
- 75CL
- 13%
- Frappato
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Alcesti's Acasto Frappato comes from the sun-drenched hills of southeastern Sicily, where this indigenous grape variety finds perfect expression. Frappato, meaning 'mixed' in local dialect, produces wines of remarkable elegance and aromatic intensity, offering a lighter alternative to Sicily's more muscular reds whilst retaining the island's characteristic warmth and generosity.
This 2023 vintage displays the variety's signature combination of bright red fruit, floral perfume, and mineral backbone. The wine's medium body and gentle tannins make it immediately approachable, yet it possesses enough structure to develop additional complexity over the next few years. Best enjoyed until 2030 whilst the primary fruit remains vibrant.
This 2023 Frappato is drinking beautifully now, with primary fruit aromatics at their peak intensity. Over the next year, the wine will develop greater integration between fruit and mineral elements, whilst maintaining its essential freshness. By 2028-2029, expect subtle tertiary development with dried herb and earthy nuances emerging, though the wine's charm lies in its youthful vibrancy. Drink by 2030 to capture Frappato's inherent elegance before the delicate fruit begins to fade.
Tasting Notes
AppearanceMedium ruby red with purple highlights, clear and bright in the glass.
NoseImmediate aromatics of fresh cherry and wild strawberry leap from the glass. Violet and rose petal add floral lift, whilst a subtle mineral edge and whisper of Mediterranean herbs provide complexity. The overall impression is one of purity and brightness.
PalateMedium-bodied with silky texture and gentle tannins that frame rather than dominate. The red fruit character continues with cherry and raspberry, joined by a touch of pomegranate and cranberry acidity. A mineral thread runs through the mid-palate, adding structure and length. The alcohol is well-integrated, providing warmth without weight.
FinishClean and persistent with lingering red fruit and a saline mineral note that speaks of Sicily's coastal influence.
Overall impressionAn elegant and expressive Frappato that captures the variety's essential character with precision and charm.
Food Pairings
In southeastern Sicily, Frappato traditionally accompanies the region's famous cherry tomatoes, whether in simple pasta sauces or with grilled vegetables drizzled in local olive oil. The wine pairs naturally with Sicily's excellent tuna, often served as involtini or simply grilled with capers and lemon. Local cheeses like fresh ricotta and aged pecorino find harmony with Frappato's acidity, whilst the wine also complements traditional preparations of rabbit and lamb seasoned with wild herbs gathered from the Iblean hills.
We think this wine would go well with
Serve slightly chilled at 14-16°C to emphasise the wine's freshness and aromatic intensity. No decanting required; simply open and pour to preserve the delicate fruit character. Use medium-sized Burgundy glasses to concentrate the aromatics whilst allowing the wine to breathe gently in the glass.
The vineyards sit on a mixture of red earth and limestone soils typical of the Vittoria zone, with some sandy deposits that provide excellent drainage. The Mediterranean climate brings hot, dry summers tempered by cooling breezes from both the Ionian and Mediterranean seas. This combination of soil types and maritime influence helps retain acidity whilst allowing full phenolic ripeness, creating Frappato's characteristic balance of freshness and warmth.
Terre Siciliane IGT provides winemakers across Sicily with flexibility to experiment with both indigenous and international varieties outside the constraints of more restrictive DOC regulations. This classification allows producers like Alcesti to showcase native grapes like Frappato in their purest form, highlighting regional character without being bound by traditional blending requirements or specific vineyard designations that apply to Sicily's more famous appellations.
Sicily's 2023 vintage benefited from a well-balanced growing season that avoided the extreme heat stress that has challenged recent harvests across the Mediterranean. The island experienced a relatively moderate summer with timely rainfall in late spring that replenished soil moisture, followed by warm, dry conditions through August and September that allowed for steady ripening. Harvest began in late August for early varieties and continued through October, with growers able to pick at optimal ripeness without the rush imposed by scorching temperatures or sudden weather disruptions.
The vintage has produced wines of very good quality across Sicily's diverse terroirs. Nero d'Avola shows excellent concentration and freshness, with the variety's characteristic dark fruit intensity balanced by vibrant acidity. Etna's Nerello Mascalese displays particular elegance, capturing the volcanic soils' mineral complexity while maintaining the grape's naturally high acidity and perfumed character. White varieties like Carricante and Grillo have retained their crisp structure alongside ripe fruit flavours. Most 2023 Sicilian wines are drinking beautifully now, though the better Etna reds and premium Nero d'Avola will reward cellaring for 5-8 years.
FAQs
What makes Frappato distinctive among Sicilian red wines?
Frappato offers elegance and finesse in contrast to Sicily's traditionally powerful reds. Its naturally high acidity, moderate alcohol, and aromatic intensity make it more akin to Pinot Noir in style, providing a refreshing alternative that pairs excellently with lighter dishes and warm weather drinking.
How should I store this wine?
Store in a cool, dark place at consistent temperature around 12-15°C. Unlike age-worthy Sicilian reds, this Frappato is best enjoyed within 3-4 years of vintage to preserve its fresh fruit character and aromatic intensity.
Is this wine suitable for cellaring?
This style of Frappato is crafted for relatively early consumption. Whilst it will remain pleasant until 2030, its greatest appeal lies in the bright fruit and floral aromatics best enjoyed within the first few years. Extended cellaring may diminish rather than enhance its essential character.
What food styles work best with this wine?
The wine's medium body and bright acidity make it excellent with tomato-based dishes, grilled fish, poultry, and vegetarian cuisine. It particularly excels with Mediterranean flavours including olive oil, herbs, and citrus, making it ideal for al fresco dining and lighter fare.
How does this compare to other Sicilian red varieties?
Frappato is considerably lighter and more aromatic than Nero d'Avola, Sicily's flagship red grape. Where Nero d'Avola provides power and structure, Frappato offers elegance and perfume, making it an excellent introduction to Sicilian wines for those who prefer more delicate red wine styles.
Can this wine be served slightly chilled?
Yes, light chilling to 14-16°C is actually recommended for Frappato. This temperature enhances its freshness and makes the wine particularly appealing in warm weather, whilst preserving the aromatic intensity that makes this variety so distinctive.
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