We are still 4 months away from the Halifax International Wine Festival. While we wait, let's 'Toast the Coast' with a light, refreshing, and vibrant red wine. While Beaujolais has long been celebrated for its ability to deliver a chillable, fruity red perfect for warm weather, there's another contender from Sicily that's making waves: Frappato. This charming, under-the-radar red wine is quickly becoming a favourite for those seeking a fresh and delightful summer sip. Let's dive into the Frappato pool and discover why it is the Beaujolais alternative you never new about.
What is Frappato?
We love showcasing new varietals at the Halifax International Wine Festival. One such one to discover is Frappato. Frappato is a native grape variety from Sicily, particularly thriving in the southeastern region around Vittoria. It is alternatively known as Frappato di Vittoria. Known for its light body, bright acidity, and aromatic profile, the Frappato grape varietal is often compared to Beaujolais’ Gamay for its easy-drinking and fruit-forward nature. While it traditionally complements Nero d’Avola in the Cerasuolo di Vittoria blend and sometimes blended with Nerello Mascalese, the star of Etna wines, Frappato shines brightly on its own, showcasing a unique personality that’s perfect for summer.
Why Frappato is Your New Summer Go-To
Fruity and Fresh: Much like Beaujolais, Frappato boasts an array of juicy red fruit flavors, such as cherry, raspberry, and strawberry. These vibrant notes are complemented by a hint of floral and herbal undertones, making each sip a refreshing burst of summer.
Light-Bodied and Chillable: Frappato’s light body and zippy acidity make it an excellent candidate for chilling. Serving it slightly cool (around 55-60°F) enhances its refreshing qualities, offering a delightful contrast to heavier reds that can feel too cumbersome in the heat.
Versatility in Pairing: Frappato’s bright acidity and fruit-forward profile make it a versatile wine for pairing. Whether you’re enjoying a light salad, or a selection of charcuterie, grilled fish such as salmon or tuna, or even a burger. Frappato complements a wide range of summer dishes effortlessly. It even holds its own with spicier fare, making it a great choice for barbecue gatherings.
Frappato vs. Beaujolais: A Comparison
Both Frappato and Beaujolais offer a delightful drinking experience that’s perfect for summer, but each brings its own unique flair:
Flavour Profile: While both wines are fruit-forward, Frappato tends to lean more towards red cherries and berries with a subtle earthy and floral note, whereas Beaujolais often showcases more of a bubble-gum and banana aroma (especially in Beaujolais Nouveau) alongside its fruit flavors.
Origin and Terroir: Frappato’s Sicilian roots mean it often carries a hint of Mediterranean herbs and a slight saline quality, reflecting its coastal terroir. Beaujolais, from the Burgundy region of France, often has a more mineral-driven backbone.
Pairing Potential: Both wines are versatile, but Frappato’s bright acidity and subtle complexity can make it a bit more flexible, especially with richer or spicier dishes.
How to Enjoy Frappato This Summer
To get the most out of your Frappato experience, here are a few tips:
Chill It Right: Serve Frappato slightly chilled, around 55-60°F. This temperature highlights its refreshing acidity and fruitiness, making it incredibly refreshing.
Pair It Well: Try pairing Frappato with summer staples like grilled vegetables, seafood salads, and light pasta dishes. Its versatility means it can also stand up to heartier fare like grilled sausages or even spicy tacos.
Explore Different Producers: While Frappato is still gaining popularity, there are several producers crafting exceptional examples. Look for names like Arianna Occhipinti, COS, and Planeta, who are known for their high-quality Frappato wines.
A Toast to Frappato
As the days get longer and the temperatures rise, it’s time to expand your summer wine repertoire. Frappato, with its vibrant fruit, light body, and refreshing acidity, offers a delightful alternative to the classic Beaujolais. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, hosting a backyard barbecue, or enjoying a beachside picnic, Frappato is the perfect companion to elevate your summer wine experience.
So next time you’re in the mood for a chillable red, reach for a bottle of Frappato and let Sicily’s sunshine in a glass brighten your summer days. Cheers to discovering new favorites and savoring every moment of the season! See you at this fall's Halifax International Wine Festival and until then 'toast the coast' with a delicious summery red wine.
4 Frappato and Frappato-based Wines Available in HRM
1. Tenute Orestiadi Frappato Terre Siciliane IGP Sicilia (Harvest, $28.00)
2. Feudi di Tresa Frappato Terre Siciliane IGP Sicilia (Bishops, $24.01)
3. Caruso & Minini Terre di Giumara Frappato Nerello Mascalese Terre Siciliane IGP Sicilia (Harvest, $24.99)
4. Occhipinti SP68 Terre Siciliane IGP Sicilia (Frappato and Nero D’Avola)
Watch my review of my Wine of the Week pick, the Tenute Orestiadi Frappato
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