When your wine shop owner tells you that one of this month’s club selections, the 2023 Occhipinti SP68 Rosso pairs well with his sister-in-law’s pistachio-crusted pork involtini, you find a recipe and try it out. First, I had to look up involtini, cuz I’d never heard of it. Then, I couldn’t find pork cutlets, so I used beef instead. All I can say is: “WOW!” What an a wonderful mouthful of flavor, and yes, this is an amazing wine pairing!
The 2023 Occhipinti SP68 Rosso, from Sicily, is 70% Frappato, 30% Nero d’Avola. Winemaker Arianna Occhipinti is a rising star in the wine world and we will seek out her wines in the future.
Ruby color in the glass. On the nose, fresh red cherries, strawberry, and red currant notes. Flavors of cherry, raspberry, cranberry, and lychee, with minerals, baking spice, and hints of licorice and smoke. Medium body with youthful tannins and bright acidity. Medium finish of red fruit and floral notes. A beautiful and elegant wine.
- By Kent Reynolds & Robyn Raphael Reynolds
Appetite for Wine 