Cerasuolo di Vittoria DOCG Sicily's Only DOCG, Where Nero d'Avola Meets Frappato

It was promoted from DOC to DOCG by ministerial decree on 13 September 2005, and no other Sicilian appellation has followed. The island has dozens of denominations, including Etna, Pantelleria and the island-wide Sicilia DOC, but Cerasuolo di Vittoria is the only one at the top tier. That status reflects both the distinctiveness of its two-grape blend and the historic reputation of the Vittoria area.

Exactly two, in fixed proportions: 50 to 70 per cent Nero d'Avola and 30 to 50 per cent Frappato. Neither may be omitted. Nero d'Avola provides colour, body and tannin while Frappato provides perfume, freshness and lightness. It is one of the few Italian denominations defined by a genuine partnership rather than by a single dominant variety with optional blending partners.

Bright and translucent rather than dark, despite coming from one of the hottest parts of Italy. Expect red cherry, strawberry and floral notes over a medium body, with moderate tannin and lively acidity. The name comes from the Italian word for cherry and describes the colour as much as the flavour. It is a wine that rewards a light chill, which is unusual for a southern Italian red.

Classico marks the historic heartland of the denomination in the province of Ragusa, around Vittoria, Comiso, Acate, Chiaramonte Gulfi and Santa Croce Camerina. The broader DOCG zone extends into the provinces of Caltanissetta and Catania. Classico bottlings come from the sandy soils closest to the sea, which tend to give the palest and most aromatic expression of the blend.

Slightly cool, around 15 to 16 degrees, which suits its moderate tannin and lifted red fruit better than full room temperature. It does not need decanting; the aromatics are the best part and dispersing them gains nothing. It pairs well with Sicilian cooking such as pasta alla Norma, arancini and grilled meats, and its freshness lets it handle richer or spicier dishes than most reds.