Direct from Sicily (and with a little help from Laithwaites Wines) are w/o wines. Third generation winemaker Dino Taschetta has crafted three wines sent as samples and reviewed below with the mantra of “wine without compromise.” And what does this mean? Those at w/o wines encourage wine lovers to enjoy sips that offer the essence of Sicily reflected in Taschetta’s use of local grapes and traditional winemaking techniques.
w/o Wines’ small portfolio is organically grown and farmed sustainably. Bottled in 100% “Wild Glass” with minimal labeling helps make recycling that much more easy. In fact, these are the first wines in the UK to be bottled in 100% recycled glass! Because each wine is sealed with sustainably grown cork and lack of animal products, each wine is vegan-friendly, too.
w/o Lucido 2024 ($19.99) is a light, bright wine of Lucido, the local name for Cataratto, indigenous to Sicily. Crisp and vibrant, I found notes of citrus, peach apricot, and hint of savory spice on the nose. Boasting racy acidity, this savory wine offered flavors of orchard fruit, white pepper, and a snappy finish. Complement your favorite sushi, shrimp cocktail with a spritz of lemon, creamy pasta, chicken, or soft cheeses with this delightful wine.
w/o Nero d’Avola Rosato 2024 ($19.99) is a pale, dry Italian style rose wine bursting with charm and flavor. On the nose, minerality, hints of strawberries and raspberries, and fresh red blossoms were enticing. Balanced with moderate body, bright acidity framed notes of red fruit, white pepper, and all the feels of a sunny Sicilian afternoon by the sea. This easy drinking Rosato was a brilliant taste sensation with my favorite tacos!
w/o Frappato 2024 ($19.99) Sicilian red wine of the Frappato grape, a close relative to Sangiovese, produces lighter bodied, more aromatic wines. It’s considered a Sicilian gem by many since 85% of Frappato in the world is grown on the island, predominantly in the Val di Noto and Vittoria regions of the southeast. After chilling for around 20 minutes, I popped the cork. On the nose, I found delightful fresh red fruit notes of strawberries, pomegranates, and cloves. Balanced with moderate acidity and satin-like tannins, flavors included baking spice, white pepper, fresh rosemary, and the slightest hint of earth. The finish lingered – just a lovely wine at a wonderful price point. A brilliant pairing with Poire Belle-Hélène, the Frappato will be equally as delicious with tomato based pasta dishes, grilled fish, or roasted chicken.
Drink something affordable and sustainable… drink wine without compromise and choose w/o wines from Sicily thanks to Laithwaites.
Cheers! ~ Cindy
