Planeta, Cerasuolo di Vittoria (Sicily, Italy) 2013

Planeta is an exceptional producer with multiple winemaking facilities located at various points around the large island of Sicily…which is an important fact, as Sicily can get very hot, and trucking fruit over long distances is not a great idea when quality is one’s objective.  Cerasuolo di Vittoria is Sicily’s only DOCG wine (the highest quality classification with the strictest production requirements), but the fact is that the wines are often rather underwhelming, sometimes lacking freshness or flavor impact, and rarely showing both at once.  Planeta is conspicuous for achieving this combination consistently, and this may be my favorite of all the vintages of this wine that I’ve tasted.  It is — at once — light and fresh but also substantial and satisfying, with wonderful aromas and flavors of red cherry fruit and a host of subtle, savory accents.  Made from 60% Nero d’Avola and 40% Frappato, this is a fantastic wine for stand-alone sipping or pairing with pizza or pasta, but also a promising partner for many other foods.