2010 FRAPPATO - Cos - Sicily ITALY - RED - natural

Quirky yet delicious, reminds me of the experience of trying the first Chateau Musar.

The colour is like a warm ruby, not especially dense but bright and truly red, without blue or purple tones, even though it is still a young wine. The aromas are charming: fragrant wild strawberries and the merest hint of candied orange peel and light spice, maybe nutmeg or cinnamon. The polished texture is silky but definite, with a fine balance of clear fruit and structure (tannins and acidity) to give it depth and length. It has that lovely sweetness of fruit that you get from the best examples of Pinot Noir (though it doesn't taste like Pinot) and the same apparent lightness and freshness even though it fills the mouth with flavour and scent, and just 12.5% alcohol. It is unoaked, complex and layered, juicy but not simple. Simply delicious.

http://www.jancisrobinson.com/articles/a201002051.html

I have tried this one alongside the IL FRAPATTO made by the daughter of Giusto Occhipinti, who owns winery COS, Arianna Occhipinti. I must say I prefer the daughter's wine. It had lush raspberry aromas and an earthy funk on the nose. More raspberries on the palate, sour cherries and cranberries.Fresh, pure and acidic.

Cos Frappato 2008 Sicilia. This is a fantastic wine: fresh, vibrant, joyful and perfumed with lovely cherry fruit. Really pure and focused, without any heaviness, but there’s seriousness underneath all the fun.

http://www.wineanorak.com/wineblog/italy/cos-frappato-at-terroirs-a-nice-end-to-a-busy-day