Perricone

The Perricone is a black grape variety typical of Sicily, known for its ability to produce red wines of great character and complexity. This variety, often blended with other native grapes, has deep roots in the Sicilian wine tradition and is gaining more and more international attention thanks to its unique features. Its versatility makes it a leading player on the wine scene, capable of expressing the best of the Sicilian terroir.

Characteristics of the Perricone Grape Variety

Agronomic Aspects

Origin: Sicily, where it is grown mainly in the provinces of Trapani and Palermo.
Climate: It prefers hot, sunny climates, typical of the island, which favour an optimal ripening of the grapes.
Soil: It adapts well to clay and limestone soils, which help to give the wines structure and complexity.

Grape Characteristics

Berry: Medium-sized grape, with a thick skin and a deep blue-black colour.
Aromatic profile: Marked by fruity notes of cherry, plum and spice, with a light floral element.

Wines Made from Perricone

Colour

Reds: A deep ruby red colour, with purple highlights in young wines.
Wood-Aged: A garnet red colour with darker shades, following ageing.

Aromas

Fruity: Notes of ripe red fruit, such as cherry and plum, with touches of dried fruit.
Floral: Shades of red flowers and violets, which enrich the aromatic bouquet.
Spicy: Hints of black pepper and sweet spices, which emerge in aged wines.

Palate

Full-bodied and structured: With soft tannins and good acidity, which give balance.
Long: Wines that leave a long sensation in the mouth, with a complex aromatic finish.

Growing Areas

The Perricone is mainly grown in Sicily, where it finds its ideal habitat:

Trapani: One of the most suited areas, with rich soils and a favourable climate.
Palermo: Here Perricone expresses itself with great elegance and complexity.
Other areas: Also found in some parts of southern Italy, where it is used in blends with other varieties.

Types of Perricone-Based Wines

Young Perricone: Fresh and fruity, ideal for drinking straight away.
Wood-aged Perricone: Complex, structured wines, with notes of spice and vanilla.

Food Pairings

Young Perricone

White Meat: Grilled chicken, baked turkey.
Pasta Dishes: Pasta with tomato, lasagne.

Wood-aged Perricone

Red Meat: Roasts, braises and game.
Aged Cheeses: Pecorino, caciocavallo.

Why Choose a Perricone?

The Perricone is a grape variety that offers wines of great personality, perfect for anyone looking for character, complexity and elegance. With its versatility, it suits many different occasions, making it an interesting choice for wine lovers.