Sicily-Tenuta Rapitala

The island of Sicily lies off the southwestern part of the Italian peninsula .  It has the typical Mediterranean climate found on other islands in the area and the southern part of Italy itself.  The key to growing wine grapes in such a warm climate is elevation.  Some vineyards are 1500-2000 feet above sea level.  So they get warmth from the sun during the day, and the cool nights and breezes keeps the grapes in balance.

Tenuta Rapitala is situated in the northwest corner of the island. The family that owns it has both French and Italian roots, and Rapitala is the first vineyard to introduce non-native grapes to Sicily.
Though they do make a Chardonnay, the rest of the wines are native grapes or continental grapes added to native grapes.

The Piano Maltese is a combination of Grillo, Catarrato and Chardonnay. Grillo and Catarrato are both native to Sicily, the addition of Chardonnay adds some texture and mouth feel.  It is described as "...rich yet fresh with apple, pear, herp and a touch of roasted nut", and it received high acclaim from both The Wine Advocate and Winespectator.

Their 100% Grillo is a wine typical of Sicily.  It has floral, herb and citrus aromas and finishes clean and refreshing, and both these white wines pair well with seafood, particularly mussels, clams and shrimp.

Nero d'Avola is the most widely known red grape in Sicily.  Rapitala's Campo Reale is 100% Nero d'Avola.  It has a deep ruby color with floral and cherry aromas. This is a bold wine and pairs well with lamb.

Wine descriptions are from the importer's website www.frederickwildman.com.  The website also has the latest reviews from the wine critics.

These wines all retail in the$12.00-$15.00 range.