2009 Palari Faro Sicilian Red Blend

Winemaking in this Northeastern corner of Sicily dates back to antiquity, and extensive vineyards were cultivated here until the late 20^th century, when they were wiped out by the pesky phylloxera bug. The remnants of the vineyards fell into such disuse that when Faro received its DOC in 1976, there were only six hectares planted (and no one made it!). Since 1994 when this estate was founded, Gambero Rosso has given Palari's Faro the coveted Tre Bicchieri award in nearly every vintage. To taste Palari's Faro is to taste all of Sicily's history in a glass. Palari sustains Sicily's viticultural history with the careful cultivation of ancient, gnarled vines from tongue-twisting grapes like Mount Etna's Nerello Mascalese, Nocera, Acitana, Tignolino and Nerello Cappuccio. The wine's perfectly ripe red berries and spices are ethereal and hauntingly aromatic like the great Grand Cru Burgundies of the world. The smoky volcanic undertones perfectly read the terroir of this storied land. This library release won't come again. Don't sleep on it.