Nero d'Avola Conchiglia (Trovati) DOC 2022

Nero d'Avola Conchiglia DOC 2022 / Cantina Trovati / Sicily

Red wine from Italy

The Nero d’Avola Conchiglia DOC 2022 from Cantina Trovati is a characterful red wine that captures the very essence of Sicily. It hails from the sun-drenched vineyards of the Trovati estate, part of the Mezzacorona group, which cultivates approximately 700 hectares of vines across Sicily, beyond its native Trentino. The sites in Sambuca di Sicilia (Province of Agrigento) and Acate (Province of Ragusa) offer ideal conditions for growing both indigenous and international grape varieties. Depending on the export market, the wines are released under the labels Feudo Arancio or Stemmari.

Nero d’Avola, often referred to as the “Principe Siciliano” (Sicilian Prince), is one of southern Italy’s most distinguished red grape varieties. Thought to originate from the town of Avola in the island’s southeast, it is also historically known as “Calabrese”, hinting at a possible link to Calabria. In the clay-rich soils of Sambuca, the variety reveals its full expressive potential. Sensitive to drought and excessive sun exposure, it requires careful vineyard management, typically trained on trellises with around 4,500 vines per 2.5 hectares to ensure optimal balance and quality.

Harvesting begins in mid-September, depending on ripeness, and is carried out by hand. The grapes are gently destemmed and pressed, followed by temperature-controlled fermentation in stainless steel tanks. Maturation takes place in cement vats, preserving the wine’s freshness and varietal purity.

In the glass, the Nero d’Avola Conchiglia reveals a deep ruby hue with violet highlights. The bouquet is layered and expressive, dominated by ripe red fruit such as cherry and plum, complemented by Mediterranean herbs and subtle spice notes. On the palate, it is soft and rounded, with a medium body, delicate seasoning and finely integrated tannins. The finish is fresh and lightly mineral – a testament to both the terroir and the precision of the winemaking.

Culinary-wise, this fruit-forward red proves a versatile companion. It pairs beautifully with Pasta alla Norma, robust risottos, grilled lamb or beef, Mediterranean vegetables, and aged hard cheeses such as Pecorino. The ideal serving temperature lies between 16 and 18 °C.

Designed for early enjoyment, the Nero d’Avola Conchiglia DOC 2022 offers a cellaring potential of approximately two to four years. A brief period of bottle ageing may enhance its depth and harmony, though it lacks the structural concentration required for extended maturation typical of reserve wines.

Combining tradition, modern cellar technology and the expertise of renowned oenologist Calogero Statella, this wine represents a new generation of Sicilian reds – authentic, approachable and full of personality.

General properties

• Vintage: 2022
• Ageing: Dry
• Country: Italy
• Region: Sicily
• Volume: 0.75 litres

Detailed properties

• Producer and bottler: Cantina Trovati (Mezzacorona) - Via del Teroldego 1/E - 38016 Mezzocorona (TN) - Italia - +39 0461 616399
• Quality Designation: Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC)
• Grape: 100% Nero d'Avola.
• Production area: In Sambuca di Sicilia, a historic winegrowing village in the province of Agrigento, Nero d’Avola thrives under ideal conditions. Here, the variety reveals its distinctive character – rich, ripe and well-structured – benefiting particularly from clay-rich soils that ensure balanced nourishment and aromatic depth. At the same time, the vines are highly sensitive to excessive drought and intense sunlight, making careful vineyard management essential. Cultivation is predominantly carried out using trellis training systems, with an average planting density of around 4,500 vines per 2.5 hectares, allowing for controlled yields and targeted quality enhancement.
• Scent: The bouquet is expressive and multi-layered, with ripe red fruit aromas—particularly cherry and plum—taking centre stage and lending the nose a warm, fruit-driven depth. These primary notes are subtly complemented by delicate hints of Mediterranean herbs and a gentle touch of spice, adding complexity and elegance to the overall aromatic profile.
• Taste: On the palate, the wine reveals a soft and rounded texture, supported by a medium body that lends it both structure and balance. The fruit aromas already present on the nose continue seamlessly, enriched by a gentle spiciness and finely integrated, subtle tannins. The overall impression is harmonious and well-balanced, culminating in a fresh, delicately mineral finish that adds elegance and length.
• Colour: Deep ruby red with violet highlights.
• Alcohol content: 13.5 % Vol.
• Residual sugar: 6.0 g/l
• Acidity: 5.0 g/l
• Closure type: Pressed cork.
• Serving recommendation: It pairs particularly well with classic tomato-based pasta dishes, such as Pasta alla Norma. Its fruit-driven and subtly spicy character also makes it an ideal match for grilled or braised meats, especially lamb and beef. Mediterranean vegetable preparations featuring aubergine, peppers or courgettes complement its aromatic profile beautifully. Mature Pecorino and other robust hard cheeses round off the culinary experience. Thanks to its harmonious structure and gentle tannins, this wine is also perfectly suited to convivial occasions and relaxed moments of enjoyment.
• Recommended serving temperature: Between 16 and 18°C.
• Storage potential: The Nero d’Avola Conchiglia DOC 2022 from Cantina Trovati is a fruit-driven and approachable red wine, crafted for early enjoyment. Its ageing potential typically ranges from two to a maximum of four years, depending on storage conditions and personal preference for matured aromas. A brief period of bottle ageing—between six and twelve months—can further enhance its balance and depth. However, the wine lacks the structural density and concentration required for extended cellaring, as found in reserve-level or barrel-aged expressions.
• Allergens: Contains sulphites.
• EAN (bottle): 8032601682424
• Scope of supply: 1 disposable bottle of wine 0.75 litres

Grape variety

NERO D'AVOLA

The Nero d'Avola is regarded as one of the most prominent and significant red wine varieties of Sicily, often bearing the title "Queen of Sicilian Vines". Though its precise origin is not definitively documented, it is generally considered an indigenous Sicilian grape variety. Its name, referring to the town of Avola in the province of Syracuse, suggests its likely regional origin. It is believed that the Nero d'Avola vine has been cultivated in Sicily for centuries. Written records of wine cultivation on the island date back to antiquity, indicating the probable significant role Nero d'Avola played in ancient Sicilian viticulture. Throughout the 20th century, Sicilian viticulture underwent various phases of modernization and quality improvement, with Nero d'Avola gaining increasing recognition for its quality and versatility in the latter decades of the 20th and early 21st centuries. Wines made from Nero d'Avola gained international acclaim, elevating the grape variety to a significant ambassador of the Sicilian wine industry. Today, Nero d'Avola is cultivated in various parts of Sicily, with certain regions like the province of Syracuse deemed particularly suitable for its cultivation. Nero d'Avola thrives in the warm, sun-drenched wine regions of Sicily. The Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild winters, provides ideal growing conditions for this grape variety. Soils can vary from sandy to clayey, contributing to the diversity of Nero d'Avola wines. The leaves of the Nero d'Avola plant are medium-sized and heart-shaped, typically dark green with slightly undulating edges, while the stems are usually greenish to reddish. The grapes are relatively large with a cylindrical shape, bearing oval berries that turn dark blue to black when ripe. The grape clusters can be densely packed and are usually loosely filled. The berries have medium size and thick, dark skins, containing juicy, dark flesh rich in colour, aroma, and sugar content, making them ideal for winemaking. Nero d'Avola is a robust grape variety well-adapted to the warm Mediterranean climate of Sicily. The plant can withstand dry conditions and is relatively resistant to diseases and pests. It thrives best in sunny locations with well-draining soils to realize its full potential. While Nero d'Avola can be used as a single varietal, it is often blended with other local or international grape varieties to enhance complexity and structure.

Bulk discount:

• 3 x Nero d'Avola Conchiglia (Trovati) DOC 2022
• 6 x Nero d'Avola Conchiglia (Trovati) DOC 2022