Azienda Agricola Palari’s Faro DOC 2010 is a remarkable wine that hails from the steep, sandy-soiled terraces of Santo Stefano Briga in Messina, Sicily. Crafted predominantly from Nerello Mascalese grapes (about 60%), along with Nerello Cappuccio and Nocera (30-35% combined), and a small blend of Acitana, Jacché, and Cor’e Palumba (about 5% combined), this wine is the epitome of Sicilian terroir.
The grapes are hand-harvested from 80+-year-old head-trained vines, situated at an elevation of 1,475 feet and on slopes with a staggering 78% gradient. These challenging conditions, coupled with dramatic temperature swings between day and night, contribute to a wine that beautifully balances fruit and acidity. After undergoing temperature-controlled fermentation with native yeasts, the wine is aged for two years in predominantly new Troncais or Allier oak barrels, followed by an extended rest of at least 18 months in the bottle, unfiltered, before its release.
Palari Faro is not just a wine; it’s a revival of an ancient tradition, thanks to the efforts of Family Proprietor Salvatore Geraci. Credited with saving the ancient Faro denomination from extinction, Geraci revitalized his grandparent’s estate in 1990, which was originally founded at the turn of the 20th century. This dedication to preserving history while delivering quality has resulted in a wine that is as complex as it is elegant.
When it comes to food pairings, Palari Faro is incredibly versatile. Its robust character makes it an excellent companion to hearty dishes like roasted red meats, grilled white meats, game, and aged cheeses. Yet, its elegance allows it to pair beautifully with fish roasted with Mediterranean herbs and tomatoes. This is a wine that not only stands up to a variety of dishes but also elevates them, making each meal an occasion to remember
13.5% abv. Sicily, Italy. Nerello Mascalese Blend.