Altavilla della Corte Sicilia Firriato 1997
The 1997 Altavilla della Corte is a red wine crafted by Casa Vinicola Firriato. Produced under the Sicilia Indicazione Geografica Tipica (IGT) classification, this wine reflects a period when the IGT designation provided Sicilian winemakers with the freedom to select grape varieties and refine their production methods. According to the producer, the wine is the result of careful and rigorous vinification, designed to highlight the natural richness of the grapes and their ongoing dedication to winemaking quality. Following the initial vinification, the wine was aged in barriques.
This vintage is a blend of the native Nero d'Avola and the internationally recognized Cabernet Sauvignon. Nero d'Avola is a traditional Sicilian grape variety deeply rooted in the island's viticultural history. It is complemented by Cabernet Sauvignon, which is widely known globally as a prominent blue grape used for structured red wines, with typical plantings found in regions such as Bordeaux, California, Washington, and Tuscany.
The grapes are cultivated in Sicily, Italy's southernmost wine region and the largest island in the Mediterranean. The island has evolved significantly from its history of bulk wine production to become one of Italy's most dynamic wine areas. Sicily features a distinct Mediterranean climate with abundant sunshine, warm, dry summers, and mild winters. The mountainous terrain and constant coastal winds play a crucial role in moderating the heat in the vineyards, ensuring a long growing season. The terroir is highly diverse, ranging from dark, mineral-rich volcanic soils around Mount Etna in the east to calcareous, clay, and sand-based soils in the western and central areas.
The history of the wine
Below, you can delve into the history of this wine — its producer, grape, area, and region.
Sicily
Sicily has gone from being a "wine lake" of bulk wine to becoming one of Italy's most exciting regions. Geographically, the island is characterized by three very different climates: the burning hot coast in the south, the mountainous heights in the interior, and not least the active volcano
Etna in the east, where "volcanic wines" have become a global trend.
When this wine was made, the world looked very different. Here are some of the stories that unfolded while this bottle quietly aged in its cellar.
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How it handles
you your wine
Storage
Store the bottle horizontally at 12–14°C and avoid direct sunlight, vibrations, and temperature fluctuations.
Opening
Allow the bottle to stand upright for 24–48 hours before opening to allow sediment to settle. Use a professional corkscrew and open carefully.
Enjoyment
Serve at 17–18°C and be patient – there is a great difference in how and how quickly wines open up when they are aerated.
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