Wine Spectator – April 30, 2019
In “Ancient Grapes, Modern World,” Alison Napjus and Bruce Sanderson “highlight six less-familiar grapes—three reds and three whites—making distinctive wines in less-traveled regions.” The final grape that Napjus and Sanderson touch on is Nero d’Avola.
Napjus and Sanderson review:
MORGANTE Don Antonio Nero d’Avola Riserva Sicilia IGT 2015 – 92 points
“This elegant, medium- to full-bodied version wraps fine, chalky tannins in a concentrated range of black cherry coulis, fig cake, graphite and star anise flavors. Long and sleek on the finish, with fragrant herb and mineral notes.”
MORGANTE Nero d’Avola Sicilia DOC 2016 – 89 points
“Mouthwatering acidity and light, taut tannins provide fine cut for the expressive flavors of black raspberry preserves, licorice snap, fragrant dried herb and ground spice. Very appealing, a well-balanced and accessible, medium-bodied red.”
In the late 1980s, Antonio Morgante decided to pursue high quality wine production from his family vineyards, working with sons Carmelo and Giovanni and convincing Riccardo Cotarella to join as consulting enologist in 1994. The winery is dedicated exclusively to production of Nero d’Avola, from 150 acres of vines planted at altitudes of 1,200 to 1,800 feet in the hilly region near the ruins at Agrigento, on Sicily’s southern coast.
Vino d’Italia Bianco di Morgante 2017 – 82 points
“A light, round white, featuring a hint of citrus peel acidity, laced with subtle notes of white cherry and herb. Drink now.”