Syrah (2008)

About this wine

The 2008 Cusumano Syrah from Sicily offers a deep red color and a bouquet of ripe cherry and blueberry aromas, complemented by hints of smoked meat and peppercorn. On the palate, it presents a plush texture with flavors of dark berries and a touch of spice, leading to a soft, supple finish. This wine showcases the unique expression of Syrah grown in Sicily's warm climate, resulting in a well-balanced and approachable red. Notably, the 2008 vintage received 91 points from Wine Enthusiast, highlighting its quality and appeal.

About the grape

Syrah, originally from France's Rhône Valley, has been cultivated in Sicily for over 150 years. The island's Mediterranean climate and diverse soils have allowed Syrah to thrive, producing wines with rich flavors of cherries, blackberries, and plums, complemented by notes of pepper and dry herbs. When grown at higher altitudes on volcanic soils, such as those near Mount Etna, Syrah retains its acidity, resulting in concentrated, fruit-forward wines. In the 2008 Cusumano Syrah, these characteristics are showcased, reflecting the unique terroir of Sicily.

Quick facts

• 🍷 The 2008 Cusumano Syrah from Sicily received a rating of 91 points from Wine Enthusiast, highlighting its bright cherry, blueberry, smoked meat, and peppercorn aromas.
• 🏞️ This Syrah is produced in the Presti e Pegni estate, located in the hills of Monreale, Sicily, where vines over 10 years old thrive in clayey and compact hilly soil at 250 meters above sea level.
• 🍇 The winemaking process includes destemming, cold maceration of the skins in the must for 2 days at 5°C, followed by alcoholic and malolactic fermentation in steel tanks, and refinement on fine lees for 5 months.
• 🏆 The 2008 vintage of Cusumano Syrah was awarded 2 Glasses by Gambero Rosso, a prestigious Italian wine guide.
• 🌶️ Cusumano's Syrah is known for its deep red color, intense aromas of ripe fruit like blackberries and plums, and subtle spicy hints of black pepper, offering a rich and enveloping texture on the palate.

Palate profile

Producer

Cusumano Winery, founded in 2001 by brothers Diego and Alberto Cusumano in Partinico, Sicily, has rapidly become a prominent name in Sicilian viticulture. Building upon their father Francesco's experience in the wine sector, they sought out the island's most suitable terroirs, establishing estates like Tenuta Ficuzza in Piana degli Albanesi and Tenuta San Giacomo in Butera. In 2013, they expanded to Mount Etna, creating the Alta Mora winery to harness the unique volcanic soils. Their commitment to quality and innovation has earned them international acclaim, with wines like Sàgana and Noà receiving top ratings.