Experience the essence of Sicily with Valle Dell'Acate Il Moro, a premium Nero d’Avola wine crafted from vines thriving in the dark, mineral-rich soils of Contrada Biddine in Southeastern Sicily. This organic, DOC Sicilia wine is aged in oak and stainless steel, delivering a brilliant ruby hue with garnet reflections. On the palate, Il Moro offers a luxurious balance of bold yet refined flavors, highlighted by ripe cherries, raspberries, and hints of blackberries, complemented by warm spices and velvety dark chocolate tannins. Perfectly suited for pairing with hearty roasts, game meats, and flavorful cheeses, this exceptional red wine exemplifies elegance, persistence, and Sicilian winemaking heritage with every sip.
Process & Profile
Il Moro is crafted entirely from 100% Nero d’Avola grapes, grown in the black soils of Contrada Biddine Soprana and Sottana, at an elevation of 120 meters above sea level. The vineyards, made distinctive by their dark, compact soils interspersed with small stones, foster vines that are over 20 years old. The wine is brought to life through a meticulous process of spontaneous fermentation in steel tanks, followed by maceration lasting up to one week. The aging takes place in large oak casks for 8 months and continues in the bottle for an additional 9–12 months, lending Il Moro its signature depth and character. The result is a wine with 13.5% alcohol content and a striking ruby-red hue with garnet highlights.
Tasting Notes
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Aroma: The bouquet is dominated by vibrant notes of wild cherries, ripe raspberries, and blackberries, enhanced by hints of spices such as cacao and licorice. A subtle undertone of wild herbs contributes to its complexity.
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Flavor: On the palate, Il Moro is full, warm, and velvety, balanced with zesty freshness. Its austere yet elegant tannins provide a lingering and persistent finish. Expect notes of dark chocolate and a harmonious blend of fruit and spice, making it a truly indulgent experience.
What Makes It Special
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Unique Terroir: The black soils of Contrada Biddine, alongside meticulous organic farming practices, ensure the quality and authenticity of this Sicilian gem.
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Aged to Perfection: A combination of steel and oak aging, followed by bottle refinement, creates a well-balanced, structured wine with remarkable depth.
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Heritage & Craftsmanship: Produced by a family-owned estate with six generations of winemaking expertise, Il Moro reflects the dedication and passion of its makers.
How to Enjoy
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Pairings: Il Moro is incredibly versatile, complementing dishes such as grilled meats, game, roasts, and hearty pasta. For a true Sicilian experience, pair it with Nebrodi suckling pig or aged Ragusa DOP cheese.
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Serving Recommendations: Serve at 16-18°C (60-65°F) to enjoy its full flavor profile. Allow it to breathe for a few minutes after opening to unlock its complexity.
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Occasions: Perfect for intimate dinners, celebratory gatherings, or as a thoughtful gift for wine connoisseurs.
Valle Dell‚ÄôAcate Il Moro is more than just wine—it is a journey through Sicily's rugged beauty and rich traditions. With its bold flavor, exquisite balance, and impeccable craftsmanship, Il Moro is an outstanding choice for anyone seeking authenticity in every sip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of wine is Valle Dell Acate Sicilia Il Moro?
Valle Dell Acate Sicilia Il Moro is a DOC Sicilia Nero d’Avola, crafted solely from Nero d’Avola grapes. It is a full-bodied, well-structured red wine with aromas of cherry, raspberry, and spices, complemented by elegant and persistent tannins.
Where are the vineyards for Il Moro located?
The vineyards are situated in Contrada Biddine Soprana and Sottana in southeastern Sicily, approximately 120 meters above sea level. The soil is dark, compact, and rich, contributing to the wine's unique character.
What is the aging process for Il Moro?
This wine undergoes aging in a combination of wood barrels and steel vats, followed by bottle aging for at least 9-12 months. This process enhances its complexity and depth of flavor.
What does Il Moro taste like?
Il Moro boasts flavors of rich red fruits such as blackberries, raspberries, and cherries, layered with notes of chocolate and spices. Its taste is warm, elegant, and persistent, with refined tannins that lend it both power and grace.
What foods pair well with Il Moro?
This wine pairs wonderfully with meat dishes, including grilled meats, roasts, game, and filets. It is also excellent with aged cheeses, particularly D.O.P. Ragusano cheese.
At what temperature should Il Moro be served?
Il Moro is best enjoyed at a serving temperature of 16°-18°C (60°-65°F), which highlights its aromas and flavors.
What is the alcohol content of Il Moro?
The alcohol content of Valle Dell Acate Il Moro is 13.5%.
What makes the soil unique in the production of Il Moro?
The soil in the vineyards is extremely dark, almost black, with medium density and small dark stones. This composition contributes to the wine's depth, structure, and distinctive flavor profile.
What size bottles is Il Moro available in?
Il Moro is available in 750ml and 1.5L bottle sizes, making it suitable for both intimate and larger gatherings.
How long can Il Moro be aged?
Thanks to its structured tannins and complex profile, Il Moro has excellent aging potential, allowing it to develop further depth and elegance over time.