Calea Nero d'Avola, Sicily, Italy

The 2023 Calea Nero d’Avola is a wine that wears its Sicilian heritage proudly—sun-soaked, bold, and brimming with flavor. Crafted from Sicily’s signature red grape, it strikes a perfect balance between rustic charm and modern elegance, offering a rich yet approachable expression of this Mediterranean classic.

Product Details:

• Varietal: 100% Nero d’Avola
• Alcohol: 13% ABV

Sensory Description:

In the glass, this Nero d’Avola shows a deep ruby to black cherry hue with a thin rose rim. The nose is layered and complex, unfolding blackberry, black currant, and plum alongside hints of cloves, green pepper, smoke, and volcanic earth. On the palate, ripe flavors of dark berries, plum, and chipotle spice mingle with notes of chocolate and roasted herbs. A medium-bodied structure with lively acidity, smooth yet leathery tannins, and a touch of minerality leads into a long, spicy, and faintly sweet finish. This bottling captures both the power and elegance for which Nero d’Avola is celebrated.

Winemaker's Background:

Calea is a collaborative label created by Polaner Selections and Botter Winery, designed to celebrate the vibrant character of Sicilian wines while remaining accessible and food-friendly. The fruit is sourced from vineyards in western Sicily, where abundant sunshine, warm Mediterranean breezes, and well-drained volcanic soils produce expressive, ripe grapes. Vinified in stainless steel to preserve freshness and varietal purity, Calea’s wines reflect both the island’s ancient traditions and a modern, sleek aesthetic inspired by Sicily’s architectural and cultural heritage.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve slightly below room temperature, at 16–18 °C, after allowing the wine to breathe for 30 minutes. It pairs beautifully with grilled lamb chops, hearty pasta with tomato or meat sauces, eggplant Parmesan, or rich aged cheeses. Its bold yet approachable style also makes it a versatile companion for smoky barbecue dishes or spiced Mediterranean fare.

The 2023 Calea Nero d’Avola delivers depth, spice, and Sicilian character in every glass, proving that serious wine can also be fun, friendly, and highly approachable.