Romano Winery, Fawarah Syrah 2021

Romano Winery, established in 1890 in Partinico, Sicily, is celebrated for its dedication to producing wines that reflect the rich heritage and terroir of the region. The Fawarah Syrah 2021 exemplifies this commitment, crafted exclusively from the Syrah grape variety, which has adapted remarkably well to the Sicilian climate.

The vineyards are located in western Sicily, at an altitude of 350 metres above sea level. The combination of calcareous and clayey soils, along with the region's favourable microclimate, provides an ideal environment for cultivating Syrah vines. The 2021 vintage benefited from optimal weather conditions, resulting in grapes of exceptional quality.

Appearance: In the glass, the wine presents an intense ruby-red hue with violet reflections, indicating its depth and clarity. The medium-high density and slow-forming legs suggest a well-structured body and balanced alcohol content. The deep, almost opaque centre gives way to a lighter, more translucent rim, hinting at its vibrancy and youthful freshness.

Aroma: The nose is greeted with a precious bouquet where notes of violet, raspberry, cherry, and wild mint emerge, blending harmoniously with hints of blackberry jam, plum, blueberry, and liquorice. A distinctive feature is the black pepper note, characteristic of Syrah. As the wine matures, it reveals elegant hints of bitter cocoa, tobacco, coffee, caramelised sugar, and 'goudron', adding layers of depth and complexity.

Taste: On the palate, the wine is dense, sensual, and voluminous. Fine-grained and well-defined tannins contribute to its structure. Flavours of chocolate-mint combine with ripe plum and berries, offering a broad and expressive profile. The mouthfeel is rich yet refined, with well-balanced acidity providing freshness and a seamless integration of fruit and spice.

Finish: The finish is intense and elegantly persistent, with long balsamic echoes that evolve into lingering dark fruit and spice notes. Hints of black pepper and smoky oak gradually give way to a delicate minerality, leaving behind a sensation of depth and sophistication. A whisper of dark chocolate and subtle dried herbs lingers on the palate, enhancing the wine’s complexity and ensuring a truly memorable aftertaste. The fine tannins soften gracefully, ensuring that the finish remains polished and smooth, while a final touch of eucalyptus adds a refreshing lift.

Food Pairing: The Fawarah Syrah 2021 pairs exceptionally well with first and second courses based on meat, such as roasts and grills. It also complements smoked cheeses, enhancing the richness and depth of these foods. A slow-cooked lamb shoulder or a peppered steak would be excellent pairings, as would a charcuterie board featuring aged cheeses and cured meats. Serving at a temperature of 16°-18°C is recommended to fully appreciate its complex flavours and aromas.

The Fawarah Syrah 2021 exemplifies Romano Winery's dedication to crafting wines that capture the essence of Sicily's terroir, offering a distinctive and pleasurable tasting experience.