The Zisola estate is the Mazzei family’s most recent investment and is located in south-eastern Sicily, the home of Nero d’Avola, about 1 km outside the magnificent town of Noto which is celebrated for its Baroque architecture. There are two “baglio” buildings on the site which form the centre of around 50 hectares of bush-trained vines interspersed with olives, citrus trees and almonds.
The vineyards are located at 130 metres above sea level with a south eastern exposure. The vines are free standing ‘alberello’ bush vines, planted at a density of 5,550 vines per hectare and the soil is calcareous.
The small but efficient cellar is equipped with temperature controlled stainless steel vats. After harvest, the grapes are gently pressed and fermented at cool temperatures of around 15°C to ensure that the aromatic compounds of the grapes are retained.
2017 was characterised by severe drought. In winter the temperature ranged to normal levels with a significant rise in March.
Summer 2017 was one of the hottest in the last ten years with temperature peaks reaching 43°C several times between June and July. During the last ten days of August, we were pleasantly surptised by rainfalls that restored the balance of the vintage; however, it’s worth mentioning that the white grape harvest was brought forward 10 days.
Warm temperatures during the day and cool ones at night promoted a healthy ripening of the bunches.
Beginning of the harvest: 16 August
End of the harvest: 2 October
Rainfalls (sum of rainfall between April 1st and September 30th): 225 mm
Temperature Index (sum of average daily temperatures from April 1st to September 30th): 4,188°C
Evaluation: Very good
Vibrant lemon yellow in colour with attractive aromas of ripe citrus fruits, delicate florals and a hint of tropical fruit. The palate is fresh and zesty, typical of Grillo, but with good weight and a full mouth-feel, thanks to the Catarratto.
Great with salads, seafood pasta dishes, grilled fish or vegetables.
James Suckling: 91 POINTS
“This may not be very aromatic, but it is super-clean and crisp with a sleek and vivid personality and a lemony finish. Drink or hold.”
Noto, Sicily
50% Grillo
50% Catarratto
Biodegradable Normacorc
12.50%
5.85 g/l
Yes
Yes
