2014 Mazzei Zisola Doppiozeta Nero d'Avola Noto Sicilia

In the beautiful, Unesco heritage-protected region of Noto, Sicily, lies Zisola, the latest endeavor from the Mazzei family. Here among the olive groves and citrus trees, the limited-production facility is dedicated to producing complex, elegant, and age-worthy wines from Sicily’s indigenous grape, Nero d’Avola. This wine is an expression of the power and uniqueness of international varieties when grown in this region of Sicily. This exceptional 124-acre estate was acquired by the Mazzei’s, famed Tuscan winemaking family, in 2002 to showcase the potential of the area. Noto, celebrated for its Baroque architecture, is an alluring spot rich in history and culture, with incredible winemaking potential.

Doppiozeta is the most important wine of the estate, made with a selection of indigenous Nero d’Avola, rigorously bush trained; it shows a different and personal style. A “super” Nero d’Avola, where the name “Doppiozeta” highlights the “core” of the Mazzei name.

Noto (Siracusa) is one of the most beautiful areas of Sicily. The property is planted to vines as well as olive, citrus, and almond trees, typical of this southern landscape. A small but efficient cellar is equipped with temperature-controlled stainless steel vats for fermentation, along with 200 French barriques for aging. Vineyards cover approximately 42 acres of the estate, covering mainly calcareous soils and planted chiefly to Nero d’Avola. Vines are trained in the traditional alberello (free standing) style. Small amounts of Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petit Verdot are also cultivated. The vines enjoy a west/southwest exposure and benefit from a steady sea breeze, which cools the vineyards during the hot summer days and warms the land in the winter.

Aging: 16 months in 50% New French oak barrels.

100% Nero d'Avola. Deep purple in color. On the nose, intense aromas combining red fruits, coffee, and clove with a slightly smoked note. The palate demonstrates a well-structured feel with red fruit and spicy notes. The 2014 Mazzei Zisola Doppiozeta Nero d'Avola Noto Sicilia has a very long and smooth finish. An excellent match with lamb or red meat in stews and sauces.

Ripe berry and hints of raisins and fresh leather on the nose. Full body, layered and delicious. Soft and easy. Nero d'Avola. Drink now. ~92 James Suckling

Creamy tannins enfold the focused flavors of crushed raspberry and dried fig in this harmonious, medium- to full-bodied red, with an underlying note of smoky mineral. Aromatic accents of licorice snap, violet, and herb show on the chewy finish. Nero d'Avola with Syrah. Drink now through 2027. 1,042 cases made, 500 cases imported. ~91 Wine Spectator

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