Nero d'Avola: Natalie MacLean's Picks

Hot on the heels of last week's post, I sent an email to one of our favorite wine gurus, Natalie MacLean (award-winning journalist, Epicurious blogger and author of Red, White, and Drunk All Over) asking if she had any favorite Nero d'Avolas to recommend to our readers.

"You bet," she replied, friendly and enthusiastic as always.  "I’m a huge fan of this delicious, incredibly priced wine."  

I've shared her top picks below, including tasting notes and pairing suggestions.  In fact, Ms. MacLean has recommended several Nero d'Avolas in her e-newsletter in recent months.  Click here to subscribe - it's an awesome free resource for wine lovers.  In the meantime, on with the picks*:

2006 Centare Nero d’Avola, Sicily: Incredible value for this robust, rich red with aromas of black plums, tobacco and mocha. Pair with: steak, stew.

$14.95 Score: 88/100.

2004 Fazio Torre Dei Venti Nero d’Avola, IGT Sicilia, Sicily: A huge, tannic wine with full-bodied richness and dark ripe fruit with some notes of chocolate. Pair with: hamburgers, steak. $16.95 Score: 88/100.

2002 S.I.V. Spadina Una Rosa Signature Nero d’Avola, I.G.T. Sicilia, Sicily: A juicy, mouth-watering, full-bodied wine with aromas of cherries and smoke. Pair with: prime rib, shepherd’s pie.

$19.95 Score: 90/100.

2005 Donnadicoppe Nero d’Avola Nativo, IGT Sicilia: A lovely, plump, juicy red that makes a great food companion. If you like merlot, you'll love this. Pair with: pasta with tomato sauce, lasagna, moose, venison.

$19.95 Score: 89/100.

*Prices are estimates only.  And if you try this wine with moose, please do let me know!