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. Doppiozeta is the flagship wine of the estate, with its sartorial viticulture through the selection of grapes, exclusively of Nero d’Avola, coming from the 3 best parcels Piscina, Sopra Navel and Mandorleto, adjacent to the historical “Baglio”.
The small but efficient cellar is equipped with temperature controlled stainless steel vats. After harvest, the grapes are gently pressed. Maceration lasts for approximately two weeks. The unique style is related to a natural fermentation in small stainless steel tanks for 30 days, without any addition of yeast or temperature control, to continue the spontaneous malolactic fermentation in oak. The ageing lasts over 16 months in tonneaux (50% new), to follow with the finissage for over 4 month in concrete tanks.
Vintage marked by severe drought, with only 49 mm of rain from late October 2015 to spring. Winter saw temperatures 6°C above average, leading to vegetation starting ten days earlier. Concerns eased in August with much-needed rains. Two heatwaves hit Sicily in June-July and early August, reaching 42°C. The vegetative cycle benefited from warm days and cool nights, resulting in an early and successful harvest. Wines show rich color and notable acidity, marking an improvement over previous years.
Hand picked from September 12th
Bottling: December 2017
Ageing potential: Over 20 years
Production: 13.000 bottles
The flagship ‘Doppiozeta’ (translates as ‘double z’ taken from the family name). Muscular, explosive spices and fruit flavors, powerful and elegant texture
Pairs well with hearty casseroles and meaty pasta sauces. Also excellent with roasted meats, spicy stews, aged cheeses.
James Suckling: 91 POINTS
Falstaff: 91 POINTS
Vinous: 91 POINTS
Noto, Sicily
100% Nero d’Avola
Natural Cork
13.22%
6.43 g/l
Yes
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