Noà Cusumano: bordeaux by education but mediterranean soul

 

If you talk about Sicily needs you think to its sun, dazzling and bright, that brings with it the warmth and the strength that almost as if by osmosis we found in the wines of this land.

Especially when they originate from Nero d'Avola, a native vine that more than any other is able to express character, alcohol and vigor in the bottle at a high level to the point of appearing wild and primordial.

Power without control, what often - especially until some years ago - the reds produced by this grape variety lacked.

But when the undoubted improvement in the technical knowledge of the producers of the region was added to the elegance brought by the inclusion of Bordeaux grapes, the resulting mix became explosive, giving life to oenological pearls, labels that have conquered over the years criticism and lovers to the point of becoming the representers of Sicilian wine on the world.

An emblematic case and one of the founders of this "dynasty" is undoubtedly the wine that I tasted last evening, that is Sicilia DOC Noà by Cusumano winery.

A blend of Nero d'Avola, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon produced within Presti e Pegni Estate close to Monreale, a village famous for its Duomo, a real jewel of Arab/Norman architecture.

A wine that we could define as a Super-Sicilian, a lithe red that, although born and conceived in years in which power and concentration were sought, has been able to demonstrate refinement and finesse that are decidedly above the average.

Bordeaux by education but mediterranean soul.

 

 

Noà Sicilia DOC 2013 – Cusumano

Personal rating: 92/100

Grapes: 40% Nero d'Avola 30% Merlot 30% Cabernet Sauvignon

Aging: twelve months in barrique

Price range: 18-22 €

 

 

TASTING

👀 Ruby with a slight garnet hint, dark and rather dense. A hint of brightness is missing, but we can't always have everything.

👃Clean, coeherent to blend grapes, to territory and to barrique aging. Intense and complex, good finesse. Olfactory impact dominated by dark ripe fruit, followed by sweet notes (reminiscent of toffee) and a light herbaceous spiciness to recall the Mediterranean scrub. A subtle "animal" nuance (almost meat-like) and a slight balsamic trace complete the profile.

👄Full-bodied, wider than vertical, with a balance slightly shifted to softness even if in a context of general harmony. Light savory to add pleasure, alcoholic heat (15 °) within the limits, tannin integrated into the structure. Very good persistence, finish featured by an almond note that slightly dries the palate.