2021 Preston Nero d'Avola

Preston says this wine (the first vintage they’ve ever made of varietal Nero d’Avola) is inspired by Arianna Occhipinti, one of our favorite Sicilian winemakers. It’s 100% CCOF certified organic Nero d’Avola, a native Sicilian varietal, and was picked at peak ripeness with an eye-popping level of acidity, the grapes were de-stemmed to an open-top tank and left to macerate for over 40 days. Fermented with native yeasts and aged for 14 months in Preston’s oldest, most neutral wooden tank.  13.5% alcohol. Only 227 cases made.  Bottled without the distracting influence of oak, the resulting wine is pure and ethereal. Primary aromas of dark cherry and vibrant raspberry are lifted by dried orange peel, rose petal and licorice. The bright acidity shows in the mouth, with red berry, forest grapes, and a hint of wet tobacco flavors on the way to a quenching finish.

91 points, Wine Enthusiast. "Smooth and polished yet alive with bright fruit flavors and light tannins, this medium-bodied wine made from organic grapes centers on black cherries, blueberries and raspberries. An appetizing nip of acidity keeps it lively and refreshing."