Flavorful, Flexible and Fun Frappato

As Italy has over 550 grape varietals, it has been a fun journey trying to explore each one. In fact, it has been said that you can try a new or different grape variety each day of the year, and there will still be some varieties left undiscovered! Wine is produced in each of Italy’s 20 regions, which is quite remarkable. Today, we are going to head south to the Island of Sicily and take a closer look at the grape known as Frappato. Do you know Frappato?

Frappato or Frappato di Vittoria is a red wine grape grown primarily in South-eastern Sicily in the town of Vittoria, province of Ragusa. Frappato is also found in Siracusa and other parts of Sicily. A recent research study indicated that there is a close genetic relationship to Sangiovese and some other Italian grapes, likely making Frapatta a cross between Sangiovese and another grape. Frappato has been used as a blending agent with Nero d’Avola and other varieties. More importantly, Frappato is a main component of the Cerasuolo di Vittoria DOCG, which consists of Frappato and Nero d’Avola. Cerasuolo di Vittoria became a DOC in 1973, but then earned DOCG status in 2005, making it Sicily’s first DOCG. The climate is Mediterranean, and as the winegrowing area is located near the sea, the soils have high sand and limestone content. In other parts of the region, grapes may be grown in the terra rossa, or brownish red calcareous soil that is rich in iron.

Although there are the DOC and DOCG appellations, more and more Frappato is also being bottled on its own, as a single varietal, as many are appreciating the flavorful, flexible and fun nature of this Italian grape. I tasted a few! Keep reading.

Frappato is Flavorful

Cerasuolo is derived from the word “cerasa,” or cherry, which lends to the typical pale or bright cherry red color of Frappato. The wines tend to be light to medium-bodied wine with a deep red cherry color. It emits fruity aromas of red cherries and berries, violets and spice. Frappato is not overly tannic, but fresh, floral and juicy.

Frappato is Flexible

As opposed to being heavy and bold, Frappato is light and fresh. It is a very versatile wine that will complement a variety of dishes. It could be paired with cheese, charcuterie, pork, pasta and even seafood dishes. Frappato would also make a nice aperitivo. It is great for those who may not want a white wine or a heavy red wine. Frappato is your wine.

Frappato is Fun!

Frappato on its own, is light and perfumed, with fresh fruity aromas and floral notes, making it a fun and easy-drinking wine that will likely be a crowd-pleaser. Frappato can be served with a slight chill, which also makes it a fun choice!

A Wining Hour with Frappato:

Corvo Irmàna Frappato Terre Siciliane IGT 2020 is produced from hand-picked Frappato grapes, grown in the rich terroir of Caltanissetta and Agrigento. Vineyards are more than 200 meters above sea level. The soils are composed of mixed composition, but mainly calcareous. The grapes mature in stainless steel. Irmàna is a bright ruby red and has a fragrant nose of mixed red and black fruit, including ripe blueberry, raspberry and cranberry. The palate reiterates these flavors, but adds violet, floral and spicy notes. Smooth, with gentle tannins. 12.5% ABV.

Duca di Salaparuta Calanìca Frappato Terre Siciliane IGT 2020 has a ruby red color with elegant rose and violet notes. Calinica has notes of strawberry, cherry, pomegranate and baking spice. It is vibrant and juicy, with soft tannins. This Frappato highlights the versatility and potential of this Italian grape. Aged exclusively in stainless steel. 13% ABV.