Variety: 100% Perricone
Region: Sicilia, Italy
Cost: $20 (SRP)
Winemaker’s Notes: Described for the first time in 1735, Perricone–nicknamed “Guarnaccio” by the Regaleali winemakers–has been cultivated at the Regaleali estate since 1954. This bottling comes from the Ciminnita vineyard at Regaleali, which was planted in 2011 using cuttings from the historic San Lucio parcel. The wine is fermented in stainless steel before resting in second and third passage French barriques for about 12 months.
Pair this wine with grilled steaks, Bordelaise sauces, rack of lamb, and rumaki.
My review: I’m on a streak of new-to-me grapes. A streak I haven’t broken is enjoying wine most nights while being stuck at home for more than a month. We persevere. Fortunately, good wine helps with all things.
So, how was the Perricone?
In the glass the 2017 Tasca d’Almerita “Guarnaccio” Perricone was a deep garnet color. On the nose I picked up aromas of cherry, tart raspberry, and a touch of licorice.
On the palate the wine was soft and very smooth, with dark cherry and oak notes being most prominent.
My wife and I paired the wine with steaks (an Iron Steak for me and a Sirloin Filet for her) with some roasted potatoes and green beans. I thought the pairing was great; the tart notes berry notes of the wine balanced the steak, while still complimenting the richness of the dinner thanks to the smooth body and soft finish.
For $20 I think this is a great value wine, especially since we’re about to enter prime steak grilling season, though I think any rich, meaty dish would be a good option for pairing. If you’re stuck at home like me, and are looking for something new to pair with whatever is coming off the grill, the 2017 Tasca d’Almerita “Guarnaccio” Perricone is definitely one to consider.
Editor’s Note: I received this wine as a free sample for review.
