Showstopping Syrah from Sicily
At the crossroads of the Mediterranean, Sicily's wine industry is once again, a star on the rise. Larger than Tuscany, Sicily has more acreage under vine than all of Germany and almost three times as much as New Zealand. Abundant sunshine combined with the moderating influence of cool nights enables the grapes to achieve perfect polyphenolic maturation - the tannins and anthocyanins that provide colour, structure and the health benefits for which red wine is renowned.
Cristo di Campobello is an award-winning Sicilian winery in the village of Campobello di Licata with a growing reputation for producing fine wines from both local and international varietals. The Lusira Syrah and Lu Patri Nero d’Avola are their flagship reds, exemplifying fine quality and impressive structure that will see them age gracefully over the next 10-15 years.
Syrah has a long history in Sicily, and the number of Syrah vines (better known as Shiraz in Australia) has been growing exponentially since the 1980’s, once restrictions were finally lifted on planting international varieties. Syrah, in particular, has an affinity to Sicilian terroir, offering a range of expressions when planted in the varied soil types and altitudes across the island. It is not hard to see why Syrah now exceeds all other international grapes at a ratio of almost 2 to 1.
The 2018 ‘Lusira’ consists of 100% Syrah, aged in French barriques for 14 months and a further 12 months in bottle before release. Dark ruby in colour, 'Lusira' demonstrates elegance and complexity, finishing with spice and vanilla on an impeccably smooth finish. It will complement grilled or roasted meats, heavier poultry dishes and aged cheeses.