Introduction

Sicily is home to one of Italy’s most emblematic grapes: Nero d’Avola. Bold, expressive and deeply rooted in Sicilian viticulture, this grape gives wines that are rich in fruit yet often elegant when made with care. The Cantine Pupillo Re Federico 2022 DOC Sicilia is one such example: crafted entirely from Nero d’Avola, it balances depth of flavour with structure, designed for wine lovers who want both authenticity and refinement.

This review explores its origins, grape character, winemaking, ageing, appearance, aromas, palate, food pairing potential, strengths and weaknesses, and includes an overall star rating.

Region & Terroir: Siracusa & Volcanic Influences

Re Federico comes from the Siracusa area of eastern Sicily. Vineyards are located close to the Ionian Sea, where volcanic soils rich in minerals and well-drained conditions create the ideal setting for Nero d’Avola.

The climate is typically Mediterranean: hot, sun-drenched days tempered by cooling sea breezes at night. This dual influence ensures grapes ripen fully for concentrated flavours, while retaining freshness and acidity.

The terroir gives the wine a sense of energy and vitality, with a balance between ripe fruit and underlying mineral tension.

Grape Variety: Nero d’Avola

The wine is made entirely from Nero d’Avola, Sicily’s signature red grape. Recognised for its deep colour, bold flavours and firm tannic structure, it is capable of producing wines of great character.

Typical attributes include:

• Colour: Deep ruby with garnet reflections.
• Fruit: Ripe black cherry, plum and dark berries.
• Secondary flavours: Notes of violet, vanilla and subtle spice.
• Structure: Moderate to firm tannins, rounded acidity and good length.

Re Federico 2022 displays all these hallmarks, presented in a harmonious and well-balanced style.

Winemaking & Ageing

Crafted under DOC Sicilia rules, the wine is vinified from carefully selected Nero d’Avola grapes. Fermentation emphasises purity of fruit, with gentle extraction to preserve texture and balance.

At 14% ABV, this is a wine of warmth and generosity, reflecting Sicily’s sun-soaked climate. The winemaking aims for softness and harmony, producing a style that is enveloping yet approachable. While oak usage is restrained, subtle hints of vanilla and spice suggest some contact with wood, enhancing complexity without dominating the fruit.

Appearance

In the glass, the 2022 Re Federico shows a rich ruby red core, edged with lighter garnet tones towards the rim. The wine is bright, clear and dense, with slow-moving legs that hint at both structure and alcohol content.

Aroma & Nose

The bouquet is expressive and layered:

• Primary aromas: Black cherry, plum and ripe red fruits.
• Floral lift: Violet and subtle dried rose.
• Spice & wood: Vanilla, cinnamon and a touch of cocoa.
• Earthy undertone: Hints of Mediterranean herbs and minerality.

The overall impression is one of elegance, with fruit leading the profile while spice and floral notes add depth.

Palate, Flavour & Texture

On the palate, Re Federico 2022 is both generous and structured.

• Entry: Ripe black cherry and plum create an immediate impact.
• Mid-palate: Juicy fruit is joined by warming spice, hints of vanilla and herbal touches.
• Texture: Medium to full-bodied, with smooth tannins and a velvety mouthfeel.
• Finish: Persistent, with fruit and spice lingering harmoniously.

The balance between richness and freshness ensures the wine feels vibrant rather than heavy.

Ageing Potential

This is a wine that drinks beautifully now, but also has room to evolve.

• Ideal drinking window: Now to 2028.
• With age: Expect softer tannins, more integrated spice, and tertiary notes of leather and dried herbs to emerge.
• Serving tip: Decant for 30–60 minutes when young to allow aromas and structure to fully open.

Food Pairing & Serving Suggestions

Re Federico’s richness and structure make it a superb food wine.

Best pairings include:

• Grilled meats: Lamb cutlets, rib-eye steak or pork belly.
• Roast dishes: Roast beef, venison or game birds.
• Italian classics: Pasta with ragù, aubergine parmigiana, or hearty Sicilian caponata.
• Cheese: Mature Pecorino, Parmesan or other hard, aged cheeses.

Serving temperature: 16–18°C, slightly below room temperature, to highlight freshness and keep alcohol in balance.

Strengths & Weaknesses

Strengths

1. Distinctive varietal character of Nero d’Avola.
2. Balanced structure with ripe fruit and refined tannins.
3. Sense of terroir, with volcanic minerality and Mediterranean influence.
4. Versatile with food, enhancing both traditional Italian and British roasts.
5. Excellent value for a premium Sicilian red.

Weaknesses

1. At 14% ABV, alcohol warmth may show if served too warm.
2. Tannins can be firm in youth, requiring decanting.
3. Not ideal for those preferring delicate, lighter-bodied reds.

Overall Verdict & Star Rating

The Cantine Pupillo Re Federico 2022 DOC Sicilia Nero d’Avola is an impressive red that captures the essence of Sicily’s most celebrated grape. It combines ripe fruit, floral elegance and subtle spice with smooth tannins and a long, satisfying finish.

It is a wine that works equally well as a centrepiece for dinner, as a cellar addition for short-term ageing, or as a gift for wine enthusiasts who appreciate Italian authenticity.

Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.3 / 5)

• Flavour & Aroma: 4.4/5
• Texture & Body: 4.2/5
• Versatility: 4.2/5
• Overall Enjoyment: 4.3/5

Summary

• Style: Rich, balanced Sicilian red with depth and personality.
• Drink: Now–2028.
• Food pairing: Roasts, grilled meats, Sicilian classics and aged cheeses.
• Why buy: Authentic expression of Nero d’Avola with elegance, character and value.