Frappato

Also known as: Frappato di Vittoria, Frappatu, Nerello di Catania

Frappato is Sicily’s light-footed answer to Gamay – a grape variety that does everything differently from the mighty Nero d’Avola. Where other Sicilian reds seek concentration and darkness, Frappato brings cherry colours, floral aromas and an almost floating acidity. The wines smell of wild strawberries and violets, the body remains slender, the tannins are barely perceptible. A wine for midday, not for the fireside.

Its home lies in the south-east of the island, around Vittoria, where Frappato is traditionally blended with Nero d’Avola to make Cerasuolo – Sicily’s only DOCG. Yet as a single variety, the grape shows its true character: transparent, aromatic, with a hint of herbs and white pepper. At Occhipinti, Frappato becomes an independent statement – a wine that proves Mediterranean climate doesn’t automatically mean power.