Mandrarossa, Sicilia IGT (Sicily, Italy) Frappato “Costadune” 2018

($18, Palm Bay International):  Frappato, an indigenous Sicilian grape, is best known as a component of Cerasuolo di Sicilia, Sicily’s only wine awarded DOCG status.  By itself, it’s a mid-weight wine that has a beguiling spiciness. The lack of wood aging allows the cherry-like fruitiness to shine.  The tannins are inconsequential — yet the wine is not flabby — which means that it is delicious chilled.  This refreshing red would good well with a salad Niçoise (or the Sicilian equivalent) or a hearty grilled fish, such as red mullet.
90 Michael Apstein Dec 24, 2019