INSIDER'S PICK: 2020 NICOSIA S.P.A. NERELLO MASCALESE SICILIA 'LENZO DI MUNTI' $18.99

After generations of being largely forgotten by the world of fine wine, the Sicilian native Nerello Mascalese grape has enjoyed a renaissance over the last few decades. It draws many comparisons to Nebbiolo from the Piedmont, and at its best can make wines that can parallel the greatness of Barolo and Barbaresco. It also shares Nebbiolo's relatively problematic difficulties in ripening and production, so it usually only gets planted in the better vineyard sites, which makes it difficult to find many inexpensive versions to expose the bulk of wine drinkers. This is just about the most 'entry level' version we have come across in a while that still shows off all the distinct and wonderful characters Nerello Mascalese is supposed to have. A bright and fairly transparent ruby color in the glass, the nose is rugged and wild dark berry with savory herbaceous notes and earth or tree bark sort of dustiness. The palate is bright and almost racy, bringing tartness to the fruit and a lightness to the body, with a fine tannic feel that is very much out of the Nebbiolo playbook. That combination, even in the less expensive versions like this one, is what helps Nerello Mascalese age and evolve so well, developing secondary earthy flavors and all kinds of umami notes. Those come with time, and if you are so inclined this would definitely be able to make it there in a few years in your cellar, but right now it's all about bright and youthful goodness. Can handle red meats, but also fine enough to pair with grilled vegetables and even some of those really tricky Italian conundrum dishes that combine both seafood and red sauces.  

The Insider's Pick wine will be available to taste Thursday and Friday and gets a 10% discount during the tasting. Come on by and taste some delicious wine!

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