Could you live on bread, cheese and wine? I have always thought that I could, so on a rainy weekend when I was the only one home and cooking seemed superfluous, I put that theory to the test. Add a classic book that I decided to re-read (the release of the author’s only other book is imminent), and I had the recipe for a blissful two days.
Since the bread I selected was an artisan focaccia accented with fresh herbs, I searched my collection for a great Italian wine. Though Tuscany and Piedmont always offer solid performers, I decided to take a southern turn on the map and head toward Sicily and selected a bottle of 2012 Tenuta Delle Terre Nere Guardiola.
Marc de Grazia was no stranger to the Italian wine world even before he started producing his own wines. Long known as a connoisseur, consultant and importer, de Grazia now resides in Etna where he mentors the newest generation of winemakers, a group that often speaks of him as a father figure. He is indisputably a pioneer, being the first to produce single-parcel Nerellos having recognized what most overlooked – the allure of the ancient terroir and quality of the indigenous fruit. His mission seems to be an overall upgrade of the world’s view of Sicilian wine and thus far, many would say he is entirely successful.
His Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Capuccio are grown in vineyards thought to be the highest in not only Italy but all of Europe. The Mascalese is known for a fresh, vibrant fruit presence with a minerality resulting from the volcanic terroir. On the nose many compare it to a top rate red Burgundy or Barolo. The Capuccio adds elegance and subtlety with focused cherry notes and rich color. Blended, the two produce wines with complexity and finesse, ones that fascinate the senses.
Now to the glass, left to open up as I became immersed in several chapters – this is a vibrant, bold red that stood up to the sharper cheeses I prefer. The cherry and lighter berry flavors are there in good measure but there is also a bit of citrus, anise and rosemary. Since the Nerello varietals are known to reflect their surroundings, I can imagine vineyards with neighboring pine forests and mountain wild flowers, bees working to pollenate the blossoms on both the vines and greenery.
The 2012 Tenuta Delle Terre Nere Guardiola is a steal at just $35.95 – your friends and family will think you paid twice that - and James Suckling rates it a solid 95 points. It is drinking beautifully now or will cellar well for a decade plus. We have just a few cases in stock, but those are sure to go quickly especially for those of you up for the challenge – could you live on bread, cheese and wine?