Sun-kissed, silky-smooth and succulent. Purato Siccari Appassimento Rosso.

 Purato Siccari Appassimento Rosso Terre Siciliane (IGP) 2022, 14% ABV.

€17.00 Bubble Brothers.

Sun-kissed, silky-smooth and succulent, with plum and cherry character

Immerse yourself in the warmth of a Sicilian summer with the Purato Siccari Appassimento Rosso, a delightful red blend that bursts with character and tastes of the Sicilian sunshine.

The Art of Appassimento

The name "Siccari" hints at the wine's unique production method. Siccari translates to "sun-drying" in the Sicilian dialect, referencing the Appassimento technique. In this age-old tradition, some of the grapes are partially dried before fermentation, concentrating their sugars and flavours. The result? A luxuriously textured wine bursting with intense fruit character and a long finish.

This particular Appassimento is a masterful blend. Nero d'Avola, Sicily's flagship red grape, takes centre stage at 75%, while 20% Shiraz adds a touch of international flair. A sprinkling of local grapes, principally Frappato, rounds out the blend.

A Feast for the Senses

Pour yourself a glass and be greeted by a captivating ruby robe. Swirl it gently and inhale the intoxicating aromas of ripe plum and juicy cherry. Take a sip, and experience the magic of Appassimento firsthand. The juiciest red fruit flavours explode on the palate, along with a touch of spice and a smooth, velvety texture. Gentle tannins ensure a lingering finish, leaving you wanting more.

Beyond the Bottle: Sustainability and Food Pairings

This impressive vino isn't just about taste. Purato is committed to sustainability, using organic grapes and implementing eco-friendly practices throughout its production chain. Knowing your wine does good for the planet adds another layer of enjoyment. 

As for food pairings, Bubble Brothers suggests this wine as the perfect partner for a hearty meal. Imagine it alongside grilled meats, rich pasta dishes, or a selection of hard cheeses. Purato, pointing to the wine's versatility.

The Verdict: Highly Recommended

If you're looking for a full-bodied, flavour-packed red wine with a touch of Italian sunshine, look no further than Purato Siccari Appassimento Rosso. This impressive Appassimento offers exceptional value for money and is sure to leave a lasting impression. So, uncork a bottle,and raise a toast to la bella vita!

* Back to the label

Terre Siciliane IGP (Indicazione Geografica Protetta) translates to "Protected Geographical Indication." This is a broader designation than Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC) and allows for slightly more relaxed winemaking regulations.

** #OrganicItaly

• This post is part of a series on Italian wines made from native grapes and produced by usually small or medium-sized organic wineries. Taking some “guidance” here from the recently published VINO. I may not always net the hat trick but hope to score two from the three each time. I have quite a few lined up but I’m happy to consider any suggestions or help. #OrganicItaly
• See the latest list here.

Beer of the Week. Heaney Irish Stout. Very much in the classic Irish Stout tradition..

Beer of the Week

Heaney Irish Stout, 4.3% ABV, 500 ml bottle Bradleys

Very much in the classic Irish Stout tradition.

Very much in the classic Irish Stout vein, this Heaney bottle is a favourite of mine and has been so for quite a while. It consistently looks, smells and tastes very much as you’d expect.

The colour combination is a black body and an off-white head. Roast coffee certainly leads the aromatics with dark chocolate also prominent. The flavour is rich. It is smooth and the finish is malty (dry and roasted). Glad to say this current bottle proves that the stout is as good as ever. Satisfaction more or less guaranteed.

Very Highly Recommended.

Heaney recommends pairing it with slow-cooked meat dishes (such as beef cheek, feather-blade of beef or shank of lamb) or pair with a rich chocolate dessert. Serve at ten degrees.

They say: For generations, our family farm has been a place of harvest and inspiration. Our beers are for after the graft. Rural thirst quenchers. Brewed and bottled by Heaney Farmhouse Brewery at The Wood, Bellaghy, Co. Derry.

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Pic: Joleen Cronin.

 

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Kuentz-Bas Le 4^eme Tour Signature Alsace (AC) 2020, 13.5%

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Lamb

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Free events to Relish at Cork on a Fork Festival this week

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See Orla McAndrew demo 12.00pm- to 2.00pm,
Thursday 15th August, Outside the English Market on Grand Parade

It’s almost time for Cork on a Fork Festival, which kicks off this Wednesday 14th August and runs until Sunday.  The five-day festival is organised by Cork City Council in partnership with most of the businesses in the city, all working together to showcase Cork’s world class food culture, hospitality businesses, incredible home-grown produce, and outstanding producers.

If you haven’t already got your hands on tickets for some of the delicious events taking place, don’t worry.  There are loads of free events, many of which don’t even need to be booked.

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