The Frappato grape, often overshadowed by its more famous counterpart, Nero d'Avola, is an indigenous Sicilian red grape variety characterised by its distinctive bouquet and refreshingly light taste. It has recently started getting much-deserved attention from wine connoisseurs around the globe for its unique charm and surprising versatility.
Primarily cultivated in the southeastern regions of Sicily, particularly in Vittoria, Frappato has historically been used to blend with other grape varieties. The most notable of these combinations is the Cerasuolo di Vittoria, Sicily's first and only DOCG wine, where it is beautifully combined with Nero d'Avola to produce an intoxicatingly fragrant, harmonious blend.
Frappato grapes alone produce wines that are light to medium bodied with a transparent ruby hue. They often feature alluring notes of red cherries, strawberries, roses and a touch of spice. The characteristically low tannin levels of the grape result in softer, more approachable wines, whilst the naturally high acidity ensures freshness, making Frappato wines excellent for early consumption.
Recently, viniculture techniques have improved, and more producers are focusing on single-varietal Frappato wines, displaying the purity and delight of this underrated grape. Aromatic and pleasant, these wines, influenced by the Sicilian heat and fertile soils, possess an appealing juiciness and a lively, slightly tart finish that make them ideal for pairing with a range of foods, including Sicilian fish and tomato-based pasta dishes.
In conclusion, the Frappato grape, with its unique flavour profile and increasing popularity, is undeniably an up-and-coming star in the wine world. Its charm lies not in complexity, but in its subtlety and simplicity, making it a delightful choice for any occasion. This grape and, consequently, its wines, are an embodiment of Sicily itself, exuding warmth, vibrancy and an unrivalled ability to enchant even the most seasoned of palates.
Buy Frappato wine below.
