The Feudo Principi di Butera 2014 Sicilia Nero d'Avola is a balanced but bold interpretation from Sicily with black fruit aromas of prune, plum and blackberry tart. Savory notes that recall smoked meat, Indian spice and sticky Teriyaki sauce appear at the back. The wine is smooth and soft with a thick textural charge. There is a touch of bitterness at the very end.

A clean and easy-going red, the 2013 Sicilia Nero d'Avola would drink with spaghetti and veal ragù or roasted chicken with baked potatoes. This is an informal, food-friendly red from southern Italy. The wine offers a deep purple color and thick extraction. The bouquet shows dark cherry and dried blackberry with bitter caper or green olive on the close that is characteristic of this grape.

From a beautiful vineyard site in southern Sicily, this easy Nero d’Avola would pair well with lasagna or grilled pork sausages. Cherry, almond and wild berry aromas are followed by a bright, fresh mouthfeel. ——M.L.(4/1/2012)—— 87