The 2008 Erice Pietrasacra Riserva is a well-made and modern wine made from 100% Nero d’Avola. Next to the entry-level Torre dei Venti that shows loads of varietal typicity, the Pietrasacra Riserva delivers greater oak-related tones of spice and toast that give the wine a grander, more elaborate personality. Blackberry, soft cherry and exotic spice accompany the long finish. Drink 2014-2021.
Fazio is a highly recommended source of value wines from Erice in the southwest corner of Sicily. The Fazio family, with winemaker Giacomo Ansaldi (one of the most knowledgeable and passionate in Sicily), recently sought to reposition their wines to make them more attractive to a younger, international demographic by shifting focus to international grapes. The quality is there and the price points are as low as I have seen. If you are looking for easy-drinking Sicilian wines for informal occasions, Fazio is worth your attention.
Importer: Pazzione Wine Import, www.pazzione.com