750ml Overview Santa Maria La Nave "Calmarossa" 2018 is a refined expression of Sicilian winemaking, crafted from native varietals that reflect the unique terroir of the region. This red wine is made primarily from the indigenous Nero d’Avola grape, which thrives in the sun-drenched vineyards of Sicily. "Calmarossa" is a wine of depth and character, offering a balance of ripe fruit and elegant tannins, with a strong sense of place. With its expressive aromas and structured palate, this wine is a perfect example of Santa Maria La Nave’s commitment to traditional winemaking practices and high-quality, terroir-driven wines. Vinification and Aging Fermentation: The grapes are fermented in stainless steel tanks, preserving the fresh fruit flavors and the essence of the grape variety. Aging: After fermentation, the wine is aged for 12 months in large oak barrels, allowing the wine to integrate the oak influence while maintaining its fruit-forward character. Bottling: The wine is bottled with minimal intervention, unfiltered, to preserve its natural expression and integrity. Tasting Notes Appearance: Deep ruby red with garnet reflections, a sign of its maturity and aging potential. Aroma: The nose is rich and complex, with aromas of dark berries, black cherry, and plum, complemented by notes of leather, tobacco, and subtle spices from the oak aging. Palate: Full-bodied and well-structured, the wine offers a rich blend of ripe red fruit flavors, along with earthy undertones and a touch of chocolate. The tannins are firm yet smooth, giving the wine a round and velvety mouthfeel. Finish: Long and persistent, with lingering flavors of dark fruit, spices, and a hint of earthiness, leaving a lasting impression. Food Pairing "Calmarossa" is an excellent match for hearty dishes such as roasted meats, braised lamb, and grilled steaks. It also pairs well with rich pasta dishes, such as ragù or pasta with truffles. Aged cheeses, like Pecorino or Parmigiano-Reggiano, also complement the wine’s depth and structure. Serving Recommendations Serving Temperature: Best served at 16–18°C (61–64°F) to allow the wine to express its full range of aromas and flavors. Decanting: Decanting is recommended for 30 minutes to 1 hour, particularly for younger bottles, to help open up the wine and soften its tannins. Aging Potential With its firm structure and balanced acidity, "Calmarossa" 2018 has strong aging potential, evolving beautifully over the next 10–15 years. As it matures, the wine will develop additional tertiary flavors of leather, earth, and dried fruit, while becoming even more harmonious and smooth.
