About this wine
COS Cerasuolo di Vittoria is the benchmark expression of Sicily's only DOCG appellation, crafted by the pioneering natural winery COS (Cilia, Occhipinti, Strano) in southeastern Sicily. A blend of 60% Nero d'Avola and 40% Frappato, both certified organic and biodynamic, this wine undergoes spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts in large concrete tanks — each variety fermented separately — then blended and aged for 18+ months in large Slavonian oak botti. The result is a vibrant, soulful red expressing cherry, wild strawberry, and Mediterranean herb aromas, underpinned by a saline minerality characteristic of Vittoria's limestone-and-red-clay soils. The 2021 vintage earned 93 points from Wine Enthusiast.
If you're new to Italian reds, this is a perfect entry point — lighter than Bordeaux or Barolo, with pure cherry fruit and refreshing acidity. Think of it as Sicily's answer to Pinot Noir, yet with a distinctive earthy, herbal character all its own.
Sommelier's Note
"This wine proves that Sicily's indigenous grapes, farmed without chemicals and trusted to wild yeasts, can produce wines at Europe's highest DOCG standard — a bottle every serious wine lover owes themselves."
Food Pairings
Pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted lamb, mushroom risotto, and aged Pecorino Siciliano. Its light tannins and bright acidity also make it highly versatile with Japanese cuisine: yakitori, sukiyaki, tonkatsu, and teppanyaki. The wine's earthy cherry notes shine especially with unagi no kabayaki (grilled eel with sweet soy glaze), and it bridges Mediterranean-style octopus dishes as well.
When to drink it
Ideal for a weeknight dinner that deserves something special, as a thoughtful gift for the wine-curious, or as the conversation-starter at a Mediterranean-Japanese fusion dinner.
Specs
- Grape Varieties
- Nero d'Avola, Frappato
- Style
- Red
- Price Range
- ¥5,000-8,000
Terroir & Winemaking
Grapes (60% Nero d'Avola, 40% Frappato) are hand-harvested from 25-year-old vines on limestone and red clay soils in Vittoria (RG), southeastern Sicily. Each variety is vinified separately via spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts in large square concrete tanks. After blending, the wine ages for a minimum of 18 months in large Slavonian oak botti, followed by approximately 12 months of bottle aging before release. Certified organic since 2007; practicing biodynamics since 2000. No synthetic additives used.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Cerasuolo di Vittoria DOCG?
- It is Sicily's only DOCG — Italy's highest wine classification — produced in southeastern Sicily from Nero d'Avola and Frappato grapes around the town of Vittoria.
- What does COS Cerasuolo di Vittoria taste like?
- Expect vibrant red cherry, wild strawberry, Mediterranean herbs, terracotta, and a distinctive saline mineral finish. The 2021 vintage scored 93 points from Wine Enthusiast.
- How is it made?
- Each grape variety is fermented separately in concrete tanks with wild indigenous yeasts, then blended and aged for 18+ months in Slavonian oak, plus approximately 12 months in bottle.
- Is COS a natural wine producer?
- Yes — COS is one of Italy's founding natural wine producers. Certified organic since 2007 and practicing biodynamics since 2000, they use no synthetic additives in vineyard or cellar.
- How long can I age it?
- It is approachable on release but rewards patience — it develops beautifully over 5–10 years, gaining complexity while retaining freshness.
Want to know more about this wine?
Ask Vinami's sommelier — no intimidation, just answers.
Talk to the Sommelier