Posted By Joel on May 28, 2009

Tasca d’Almerita Regaleali 2007, IGT

It’s said that the inspiration to complete the opera Parsifal came to composer Wagner under a giant banyan tree at the grand residential estate of the Tasca d’Almerita family.  Who said there is no connection between wine and music!

Founded in 1830, the 1200 acre Tasca d’Almerita estate is owned by the aristocratic Tasca d’Alermita family and is located just more than an hour south of Palermo in Sicily.  The family has been making wine for 7 generations and produces 15 or so different wines based on both native and international grape varietals. Approximately 40% of production is exported.

The family history extends back to the 19th century, but it was Count Giuseppe who overcame the trend of bulk production which dominated Sicilian wine making.  Instead, the Count innovatively pushed ahead with a vision that encouraged experimentation and quality over quantity, beginning a new chapter in the family wine business.

Although technologically advanced, the company “mind” is still focused upon history, culture, and especially quality: meticulous care is administered year round in the fields and cellar.  And the family has engaged wine consultant Carlo Ferrini to provide the impeccable guidance for which he is famous.

In the estate vineyards, as vines are replanted every year, vine ages span from 1 to 40 years.  Vines are predominately grown on espalier and pruned by single or double guyot.  The area microclimate is ideal, with days and nights ushering in and out significant transfer of heat and the higher elevation of Tasca d’Almerita vineyards allowing slower, gradual ripening and maturity of the grapes.

The Regaleali Sicilia is made from Inzolia, Grecanico, and Catarratto grapes.  A 15-day fermentation is carried out in stainless steel tanks. Malolactic fermentation is left undeveloped.  The wine is kept for an additional 3 months in stainless steel before bottling.

Tasting Notes / Impressions:

Regaleali has a bright, straw yellow luminesence, as if a bit of Sicilian moon and sun had combined with the wine.  Generously fruity notes of citrus, peach, and melon flow over delicious, racy acidity and good minerality.  Great balance and a persistent, clean, fresh finish. Elegance and drinkability at unusually good value for money.

Food Pairing Suggestions:

Seafood and Seafood Pasta of all types, especially:  Tuna or Swordfish steaks with capers, olives, tomatoes, parsley or basil; Linguine with Mussels (see recipe on Vintrospective.com); Grilled shrimp; Grilled vegetables - try grilled peppers and onions on a roll, or peppers and eggs on a roll, with a salad that includes feta or fresh pecorino cheese; Regaleali will be great with many antipasti and salads; Also consider this wine w. sushi / maki / sashimi !

Categories: $ (Under $25), Sicily, Wine
Tags: Catarratto, Inzolia