The estate’s 2006 Sagana (Nero d’Avola) is another plump, juicy wine generously endowed with dark red fruit, chocolate and sweet toasted oak. This contemporary styled Nero d’Avola offers excellent length on the palate and a round, engaging personality. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2012. The Cusumano brothers produce a large number of bottlings from their 500 hectares of vineyards. The wines are made in fruit-driven, forward style, and, at their best, offer excellent quality.Importer: Vin Divino, Chicago, IL; tel. (773) 334 -6700

Sagana is a pure expression of Nero d’Avola with loads of dark berry and cherry backed by toasted almond and milk chocolate. It shows a fair degree of elegance, and would pair with chicken, pork or over-baked pasta. ——M.L.(4/1/2012)—— 90