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 Petit Verdot vines were planted in 2004 and over one hectare in the middle of the vineyards.
The small but efficient cellar is equipped with temperature controlled stainless steel vats. After harvest, the grapes are gently pressed. Maceration lasts for approximately 14-16 days. Fermentation then takes place at 28-30°C. The wine is then aged for 16 months in 225 litre barriques (50 % new). The wine was aged for a further 6 months in bottle before release.
The grapes were hand harvested from 29th August 2011.
“Effe Emme” is the spelling of “FM” in Italian: this wine displays Filippo Mazzei’s initials. Deep purple in colour with notes of ripe plum fruit, savoury and peaty notes. An elegant wine of great complexity and persistence.
Pairs well with hearty casseroles and meaty pasta sauces. Also excellent with roasted meat, game and mature cheese.
Drink: Until 2031
93 Points, James Suckling, October 2014
Noto, Sicily
100% Petit Verdot
Natural Cork
14.5%
6.1g/l
4000 btls
