The 2018 Passopisciaro Franchetti is a truly remarkable wine that embodies the essence of Sicily. With its elegant and sophisticated character, this red blend showcases the exceptional craftsmanship of Passopisciaro, a renowned producer in the region.
In the glass, the Franchetti displays an intense and mesmerizing inky purple color that immediately captivates the eye. Swirling the wine reveals its luxurious viscosity and leaves behind stunning legs that hint at its quality.
On the nose, this wine presents a symphony of aromas that delight the senses. Rich blackberry and plum sauce notes take center stage, accompanied by alluring hints of lavender, sage, and mocha. Subtle undertones of smoke add complexity to the bouquet, creating an enchanting olfactory experience.
Upon the first sip, the velvety textures of the Franchetti caress the palate, enveloping it in a seamless and elegant embrace. Waves of blue and black fruit flavors flood the mouth, leaving a lasting impression. The wine's well-integrated tannins provide structure and depth, while the underlying salty minerals and savory herbs add layers of complexity.
The 2018 Franchetti is a wine of immense depth and potential. It has already garnered high praise from wine critics, receiving a score of 97 points from Vinous and 94 points from Robert Parker's Wine Advocate. Eric Guido of Vinous describes it as a refined and lifted expression of Franchetti, with a long and wide drinking window ahead.
This proprietary blend is composed of equal parts Petit Verdot and Cesanese Daffile, showcasing the winemaker's artistry in blending different varietals to achieve a harmonious and balanced wine. The grapes are sourced from the Contrada Guardiola vineyard, located at an elevation of 820 meters on Mount Etna.
With an alcohol content of 13.0%, the Franchetti is a wine that can be enjoyed now or cellared for further development. Its potential for aging is highlighted by Monica Larner of Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, who suggests that the wine will continue to evolve and flesh out with more time in the bottle.
Undoubtedly, the 2018 Passopisciaro Franchetti is a masterpiece that showcases the unique terroir of Sicily. It is an exceptional wine that deserves a place in any wine enthusiast's collection.