COS : Pithos Rosso 2016

A Stunning and Complex Biodynamic Red Wine from Sicily

Azienda Agricola COS was first established in 1980, when 3 wine-loving friends decided to work together to form their own business. Giambattista Cilia (C), Giusto Occhipinti (O) and Pinuccia Strano (S) began producing wines as a hobby, renting the land of their parents and cultivating vines there. Over time, however, COS has transformed into one of the best known ambassadors of Sicily's unique terroir. For perhaps the first time, COS brought international attention to the Cerasuolo di Vittoria appellation in southern Sicily, putting the spotlight on the native Frappato variety to be found there. The COS team were also one of the pioneers of biodynamic and "natural" winemaking in southern Italy, paving the way for like-minded producers. The Pithos 2016 by COS is a wine of the DOC appellation Cerasuolo di Vittoria, made of grapes grown in the areas of Bastonca and Vittoria in southeast Sicily. The blend contains 40% Frappato di Vittoria and 60% Nero d'Avola, made of biodynamically cultivated fruit. The vines, aged 25 years on average, grow in red soils formed of Pliocene subalpine sands and limestone of a siliceous nature. They grow at an altitude of 230 metres above sea level and are planted at a density of 5,000 vines per hactare. The wine is produced with spontaneous fermentation, which takes place on skins in terracotta amohorae, using only indigenous yeasts. These amphorae are kept buried underground and only the tops are exposed, as a way to keep the temperature constant and to allow the fermenting must to be affected by the earth's natural energy. The wines are matured in amphorae and in the bottle before release.

The Pithos 2016 by COS presents a ruby-red color in the glass. On the nose, this Sicilian red wine is stunning and complex, with powerful violet, red plum, forest berries and raspberry blossom notes coming through straight away. The palate is supple, with floral touches accompanying the raspberry and cherry fruit flavors. A very fresh wine with fantastic acidity and soft, round, slightly chalky tannins. To enjoy now or keep for until 2021.