“FL” Fossa di Lupo Vino di Contrada IGT Sicilia 2019 – Occhipinti

This single-varietal Frappato comes from the Fossa di Lupo vineyard and has been the backbone of the estate since 2004. The lean, sandy soils of the Contrada have shades of red to chestnut brown and only a small humus layer. After only 40 cm of mostly sandy layer lies the base of firm, hard limestone, which in part protrudes bare to the surface of the site. The vines are planted in the typical Albarello system of cultivation and face north-east towards the Hyblaean mountains. The wines of Contrada Fossa di Lupo are usually somewhat darker and always have a distinctive acid structure. To best express the freshness of the microclimate, the minerality of the calcareous soils and the typicity of the frappato, biodynamic viticulture is Occhipinti's way to balance. In the hot and windy climate of southern Sicily, Arianna Occhipinti works without irrigation, but with seeds such as fava beans and other useful plants. They protect the soil and the vines, which have been propagated from old genetics with the Massale selection. They work exclusively with gravity and there is no new wood, only used containers. Occhipinti abandons the DOC classification in favour of a fresher varietal expression and markets their site wines as IGT Terre Siciliane. The average production of Fossa di Lupo is only 2700 bottles.

Transparent, strong ruby red.

The bright red fruit shines with animating citrus notes that attest to the distinctive freshness of the 2019 Vino di Contrada "FL" Fosso di Lupo. Aronia and sour cherries as well as rosehip and red currants are framed by the citrus oil of green mandarins, blood oranges and a little bergamot. In addition to mild spices, some maquis, floral overtones and black olive, white pepper and vetiver provide the shimmering twist in the top note that makes it shimmer like the sun on the hot asphalt on the horizon.

Taut and polished on the nose, it once again confirms that the red wines from this hottest corner of Sicily are among the freshest in the country. Transparent and fine-grained, the powdery minerality combines with the silky and tightly woven tannins of the Frappato, giving it its incredible polish and precise contour. The acidity is compactly woven into this structural conglomerate, which is formidable to keep fresh and unharmed even in the heat. It is also an extremely versatile food companion.