Riserva del Conte Contea di Sclafani DOC Sicily

The Riserva del Conte from Tenuta Regaleali is the flagship of one of Sicily's most important wineries — a Nero d'Avola that shows what this grape variety can achieve on its home continent when given time and care.

Tenuta Regaleali is located in the heart of Sicily, in the hills of the Contea di Sclafani, far away from the coast and its tourist clichés. The Tasca d'Almerita family estate has been managed for generations and is considered a pioneer for quality-oriented Sicilian wines. The Riserva del Conte is a rarity from the house — only a few thousand bottles are produced annually.

In the glass, the Nero d'Avola shows deep ruby red. On the nose, ripe blackberry and black plum, underpinned by licorice and a hint of dried herbs. On the palate, the tannins feel firm but well-integrated — the wine has structure and weight without feeling heavy. The finish is long, with a spicy-mineral aftertaste.

Best served at 16–18 °C, it pairs with braised lamb, wild boar ragù, or a matured Pecorino Siciliano. If you open it for a meal, you should decant the bottle an hour beforehand.