Gaudioso Syrah 2021

Gaudioso's Syrah comes from Contrada Pergola, a 3-hectare plot in Partanna, southwest Sicily, in the province of Trapani. The vines were planted in 1998, trained to Guyot, and grow in sandy clay soils at 250 meters elevation. The wine is classified IGP Terre Siciliane.

Farming is fully biodynamic. The Gaudioso family abolished synthetic fertilizers and chemical pesticides, managing the land with green manure, compost, and biodynamic preparations. Copper and sulfur are the only treatments used against plant disease. Sheep are also raised on the property alongside vineyards and olive groves.

Fermentation is spontaneous in stainless steel with no temperature control and no added yeasts. The wine ages in stainless steel until April following the harvest, then is bottled with minimal sulfites and no fining. Annual production is approximately 1,300 bottles.

In the glass, it shows a dense purple-red color. Expect fresh red fruit — cherries, red mulberries, plum — alongside notes of blood orange, dried herbs, and soil. The low alcohol (12%) keeps it light on its feet despite the warm Sicilian growing conditions.