Rosso del Conte (1981)

About this wine

The 1981 Rosso del Conte from Tasca d'Almerita is a testament to the longevity of Sicilian wines. After over four decades, it presents a garnet hue with orange reflections, indicative of its age. The nose reveals dried violets, red fruits in alcohol, and earthy notes like humus and mushroom. On the palate, it offers a smooth texture with lively fruit flavors, spices, and a touch of eucalyptus, leading to a satisfying finish. This wine showcases the aging potential of Nero d'Avola and Perricone blends from Sicily.

About the grape

In 1959, Count Giuseppe Tasca d'Almerita planted the San Lucio vineyard at Tenuta Regaleali in Sicily, introducing a mix of Nero d'Avola and Perricone vines. Nero d'Avola, often called the "Black Grape of Avola," is Sicily's most important red grape, known for its deep color and rich flavors. Perricone, also known as Pignatello, is a native Sicilian variety that was once widely planted but became less common over time. The combination of these two grapes in the San Lucio vineyard led to the creation of Rosso del Conte, one of Sicily's first single-vineyard wines, showcasing the unique qualities of these indigenous varieties.

Quick facts

• 🍷 Rosso del Conte, produced by Tasca d'Almerita, was one of the first Sicilian wines crafted for aging, marking a significant milestone in the island's winemaking history.
• 🍇 The 1981 vintage of Rosso del Conte is a blend of Nero d'Avola and Perricone, two indigenous Sicilian grape varieties that contribute to its unique character.
• 🌶️ Nero d'Avola, often referred to as 'the most important red wine grape in Sicily,' is known for its sweet tannins and flavors reminiscent of plums and pepper.
• 🍒 Perricone, also known as Pignatello, is a lesser-known Sicilian grape that adds structure and complexity to blends, offering notes of red berries and spices.
• 🪵 The 1981 Rosso del Conte was aged in chestnut barrels, a traditional practice that imparts distinctive flavors and enhances the wine's aging potential.

Palate profile

Producer

Tasca d'Almerita, founded in 1830 by the Tasca family, is a historic Sicilian winery renowned for its commitment to quality and sustainability. The estate spans approximately 550 hectares, with nearly 400 hectares dedicated to vineyards cultivating both indigenous and international grape varieties. Over eight generations, the family has expanded their holdings to include five distinct estates across Sicily, each reflecting the island's diverse terroirs. In 2019, Tasca d'Almerita was honored as "European Winery of the Year" by Wine Enthusiast for its dedication to sustainable viticulture.