The 2021 Occhipinti Vino di Contrada Bombolieri is an intriguing red wine hailing from Sicily, Italy, crafted by the renowned producer Arianna Occhipinti. This wine, composed of a proprietary blend, is a testament to the region's viticultural prowess and offers a unique tasting experience. With an alcohol content of 12.5%, this wine maintains a delicate balance between power and finesse.
Earning a stellar review from Decanter, this wine was awarded an impressive score of 95 points. Decanter describes it as a blend that "mixes the ethereal finesse of PT and the power of FL," suggesting a harmonious marriage of subtlety and strength. The tasting notes highlight "deep aromas of dark cherries, hazelnuts and iron" which are complemented by lighter notes of "wild violets, black tea, and balsam herbs." Such complexity indicates a wine that evolves in the glass, offering a multifaceted sensory experience.
The wine is noted for its "youthfully grippy tannins," which provide structure and suggest that the wine has excellent potential for aging. Its "staggeringly brisk and pure, Nebbiolo-esque progression" makes it a wine of character, with a "long and punchy finish" enriched by flavors of "bitter orange, tilled soil, crunchy red and black fruits, Vermouth-like botanical herbs and iodine." This complexity and depth are attributed to the 40-year-old vines from which the grapes are sourced, growing on pebbles over layers of white limestone.
In summary, the 2021 Occhipinti Vino di Contrada Bombolieri is a wine of remarkable sophistication, with the potential for further development in the bottle. It is an excellent choice for those who appreciate wines that offer both immediate enjoyment and the promise of future reward.