Pizzeria Prima Strada

This week we continue our exploration of the new Southern Italian wine list with a closer look at two of our reds available by the glass – Nero d’Avola & Montepulciano d’Abruzzo.

Nero d’Avola – Nero is the grape first grafted in Avola, a town in Syracuse. Nero d’Avola is a late ripening grape that does well in the heat, making it perfect for Sicily’s scorching climate. There are many who suggest similarities to syrah, and often they are blended together. Either way, nero d’Avola is quickly becoming Sicily’s number one grape with many producers making excellent single vintage wines.  This wine is spicy, slightly jammy and full of great, new world fruit character.  If you typically drink merlot, cabernet or shiraz you will find this wine sufficiently plump and fruity.  The Nero d’Avola pairs wonderfully with the Diavola’s spicy calabrese salami.

Montepulciano d’Abruzzo- Montepulciano d’Abruzzo is a nostalgic Italian wine. It has a medium to light body, good tannins and that characteristic, old world, leather belt in a cedar box charm. This wine is a perfect match with any high acid meal (read tomato sauce). Cantina Tollo has been perfecting their Montepulciano d’Abruzzo for over 40 years. The winery is tucked in a tiny, mild pocket of a truly amazing land.  If you’re looking for a red that pairs perfectly with any pizza or the polpette al forno – this is the wine for you.

Have questions about our new wine list, feature wines, or pairings? Send them to Andrew and he’ll be sure to address them in our next installment of Wine Time.

Interested in learning more about Italian food, wine, & culture?  There are still tickets available for our next Long Table Dinner where we toast the Trentino – Alto Adige region.  Visit our events page for more info.  Salute!