Cerasuolo di Vittoria, Planeta 2024 75cl

Cerasuolo di Vittoria is Sicily's only DOCG, and this is Planeta's take on it from their estate in the island's warm south-east. The name comes from cerasa — cherry — and one sip tells you why. It blends 60% Nero d'Avola for structure with 40% Frappato for lift and perfume.

The Planeta family have been farming in Sicily for generations and now work across five estates on the island; Vittoria is where they make their most drinkable, sun-filled reds. Nero d'Avola brings the body and the plummy depth; Frappato throws in freshness, floral notes and a bright natural acidity that stops the wine feeling heavy despite the Sicilian sunshine.

The nose is properly aromatic — dried strawberry and cherry, a cola-like sweetness, balsamic and dried herbs, even a flicker of exotic spice. The palate carries wild cherry, plum and red berries over a dusty, earthy note, with medium-plus acidity and fine, sandy tannins driving a long, vibrant finish. It is medium-bodied and immensely gulpable.

At £17.99 this is a joy — a distinctive, food-loving Sicilian red that punches above its price and works chilled in summer. Drink it over the next two to three years while the fruit is singing.

How to Serve

Serve at 14–16°C — a touch cooler than a full red, which flatters the Frappato lift. No need to decant.

Where to Drink It

Dandy on Maltby Street for its natural leanings. Planque in Haggerston. Brat in Shoreditch, where the smoky grill meets that hint of char in the wine.

Food Pairings

Grilled tuna or swordfish, Sicilian-style — the acidity handles the oil beautifully. Or a spicy sausage and fennel pizza.