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Nestled in the hills surrounding Palermo, the Monreale DOC stands as a testament to Sicily's enduring winemaking tradition. This Designation of Controlled Origin (DOC) area enjoys a Mediterranean climate, marked by hot summers and mild winters. The region's terroir is distinguished by a mix of clay, limestone, and sandy soils, providing optimal drainage and mineral richness ideal for vine cultivation.
At the heart of Monreale's viticulture are its grape varieties, which perfectly capture the essence of Sicilian winemaking. The region's red wines are predominantly dominated by Nero d’Avola, a grape known for producing full-bodied, rich reds bursting with notes of ripe fruit and spices. Complementing this are the spicy and berry-like nuances of Perricone, along with the international flair of Syrah, which brings its characteristic pepper and dark fruit profiles.
On the white wine front, Monreale showcases the elegance of the native Ansonica, producing aromatic and refreshing wines often with hints of tropical fruit and almonds. Yet, it's perhaps Catarratto that's most synonymous with Sicilian white wines; offering citrusy, floral, and occasionally nutty notes, it's a grape variety that has been cultivated on the island for centuries.
In essence, the Monreale DOC is more than just a wine-producing region; it's a vibrant blend of history, tradition, and the bounties of the Sicilian landscape. Whether you're sipping a robust Nero d’Avola or a crisp Catarratto, Monreale wines are a true expression of Sicily's winemaking prowess.
Vineyard Hectares
WINERIES
GROWING DEGREE DAYS
The Monreale DOC, located in the Italian wine region of Sicily, covers red, rosé and white wines produced southwest of Palermo.
In this region, the climate is Mediterranean, which means that winters are cold and rainy while summers are typically hot and dry. Rainfall is mainly concentrated between the months of October and December.
The soils of the Monreale DOC are mainly of clay-sandy texture.
Most Planted Red Grape Varieties: Nero d’Avola, Perricone, Syrah
Most Planted White Grape Varieties: Ansonica, Catarratto
Nestled in the heart of Sicily, the Monreale DOC region showcases its winemaking prowess through its diverse range of red, white, and rosé wines. Each wine embodies the essence of the land, accentuating the unique grape composition that defines the region's viticultural heritage.
For the red wines, a minimum of 50% Nero d'Avola and/or Perricone serves as the backbone of the blend, showcasing the intensity of Sicily's indigenous red grapes. These varieties contribute rich red fruit flavors, spiciness, and smooth tannins. Harmoniously complementing the blend are other authorized red grape varieties, adding complexity and character to the final wine. The result is a robust and flavorful red wine, captivating with its deep colors and enticing aromatics. Ideal for pairing with hearty meat dishes and aged cheeses, the Monreale DOC red wines offer a taste of Sicilian charm in every sip.
In the white wines, the focus lies on the local treasures of Ansonica (known as Inzolia) and Catarratto, forming a minimum of 50% of the blend. These grapes gift the wines with delicate floral notes, tropical fruits, and a refreshing acidity. With a maximum of 30% Trebbiano and up to 50% of other authorized white grape varieties, the wines are crafted with finesse, resulting in a vibrant and lively expression of the Sicilian terroir. Perfectly suited for pairing with seafood, fresh salads, and light Mediterranean fare, the Monreale DOC white wines delight with their elegance and crispness.
Meanwhile, the region's rosé wines exude a captivating allure, featuring a minimum of 70% Nerello Mascalese, Perricone, and/or Sangiovese. These red grape varieties infuse the wines with bright red berry flavors, floral notes, and a refreshing acidity. Blended with other authorized red grape varieties, the rosé wines dance on the palate with their delicacy and balance. The result is a captivating and versatile rosé, perfect for sipping on warm summer days or complementing a variety of dishes with its light and vibrant character.
In the Monreale DOC region, the red, white, and rosé wines stand as a testament to the rich diversity of Sicilian winemaking. With their authentic grape compositions and exquisite flavors, they invite wine enthusiasts to savor the spirit of Sicily in every glass.