Wines Faro Azienda Agricola Bonavita - Vignaioli - 2020

Azienda Agricola Bonavita’s Faro 2020 is an expressive red wine hailing from the north-eastern tip of Sicily, an area shaped by rolling hills and the Mediterranean’s cooling breezes. The “Cuvée Vignaioli” suggests a blend of several local grape varieties, and while exact cepages are not specified, Faro wines are most typically crafted from indigenous Sicilian grapes such as Nerello Mascalese, Nerello Cappuccio, and Nocera. These varietals lend the wine a delicate ruby colour, with an aromatic profile often defined by red cherries, wild herbs, subtle spice, and a mineral backbone hinting at volcanic soils. Vinification methods here tend to favour gentle extraction and maturation that preserves freshness and allows the terroir to shine through, resulting in a wine of both elegance and complexity.

The Faro DOC is a historic but relatively rare appellation nestled near Messina, in Sicily’s northerly reaches. Vines are rooted in sandy, mineral-rich soils, often with traces of volcanic matter from Mount Etna’s ancient eruptions. The Mediterranean climate—marked by warm days, cool nights, and significant maritime influence from the Tyrrhenian and Ionian Seas—provides ideal conditions for gradual grape ripening. The region’s centuries-old viticultural tradition, coupled with limited production, makes Faro wines highly sought-after among aficionados seeking distinctive, site-driven expressions.

For food pairings, the elegance and fine tannic structure of this wine complement a wide array of dishes. It pairs beautifully with classic Sicilian cuisine such as caponata, arancini, or pasta alla Norma, where the wine’s acidity balances the richness of aubergines and tomatoes. Grilled lamb or tuna, wild mushroom risotto, and mature pecorino cheese are also excellent companions.

To appreciate its full bouquet and palate, serve this Faro 2020 at a temperature around 16-18°C. Decanting for an hour before service can help the aromas unfold and reveal additional layers of complexity. This wine will reward considerate tasting and will likely continue to evolve with a few years of cellaring.