Wines Sicily Dominic Hentall - Terra Nera - 2020

Dominic Hentall’s Cuvée Terra Nera 2020 from Sicilia is a Sicilian red wine with a modern, international edge, crafted in the sun-drenched territories of southern Italy. While the precise blend of grape varieties is not specified, Sicilian reds often highlight indigenous varieties such as Nero d’Avola or Frappato, sometimes blended with international grapes like Syrah or Cabernet Sauvignon for added body and complexity. The 2020 vintage benefits from a warm, dry year, allowing for optimal ripening, which typically yields a wine with generous fruit, well-integrated tannins, and a touch of Mediterranean herbs and spice. Vinification is likely designed to express ripe fruit, supple structure and freshness, to be enjoyed within a few years of the vintage.

The Sicilia designation encompasses vineyards throughout Sicily, Italy’s largest island and one of its most ancient and prolific wine areas. The region enjoys a warm Mediterranean climate with abundant sunshine, low rainfall, and cooling maritime breezes, all of which help develop ripe, concentrated flavours while preserving freshness. Soils are varied but often include volcanic, clay, and limestone composites, contributing to the complexity and minerality of the wines. Over recent decades, Sicily has undergone a remarkable renaissance, refocusing on quality wine production and championing both traditional and international grape varieties.

For food pairings, this style of Sicilian red – structured yet approachable – marries beautifully with a broad range of dishes. Classic Sicilian cuisine, such as aubergine parmigiana, caponata, or grilled lamb with rosemary, would make traditional matches. The wine’s natural richness and acidity also complement tomato-based pasta dishes, cured meats, cheeses like pecorino, or Mediterranean vegetable stews.

To enjoy Dominic Hentall’s Cuvée Terra Nera 2020 at its best, serve it slightly below room temperature, ideally at 16-18°C. Decanting for half an hour before serving can help the wine open up and reveal its aromatic complexity and layered palate.