Gulfi

Wonderful entry into the Gulfi world: precise aromas of red sour cherries, stone minerals and aromatic herbs. Fresh and juicy, with a delicate spicy note and a refreshing aftertaste in the long finish. A lovely, almost weightless red wine with a convincing fruit component and wonderful drinking flow. SUPERIORE.DE

Valcanzjria is a cuvée of Chardonnay, Carricante and Albanello. Fragrant with a fine fresh-oxidative note of white flowers and limes, full-bodied and yet fresh on the palate. The attentive taster finds the terroir-typical traces of flint and looks forward to further promising bottle ageing. SUPERIORE.DE

True to the house style, Nerojbleo offers a generous load of ripe fruit with maraschino cherry and blackberry jam at the centre. Its texture is dense, soft and carried by a slight sweetness. A juice and power package with a nice drinking flow and a typical Gulfi interpretation of the grape variety. SUPERIORE.DE

The Carjcanti from our own vineyards on Etna deserves applause. Yellow, with green reflections. The bouquet is reminiscent of apple, pineapple, brown butter and cinnamon, rounded off by flint and roar. Taut on the palate with Carricante-typical mineral acidity, then fruit from the orchard and herbal notes. Very fresh, aromatic and long with exciting ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sweet white flowers, crushed raw almonds and smoke waft up from the 2020 Carjcanti. It's round and soothing on the palate, with a measured inner sweetness balanced by vibrant acidity. Ripe orchard fruits and melon tones settle upon the senses. The 2020 leaves a mineral staining while finishing with admirable length. A crisp green apple hint gradually fades. This is a lovely Carricante from the southeastern reaches of Sicily." Vinous

Dark colour, beautiful bouquet of Mediterranean herbs and balsamic notes, ripe, fruity morello cherry, rich in silky tannins, the magnificent Nero d'Avola site wine Neromaccarj. SUPERIORE.DE

"Aged for two years in tonneaux, the Gulfi 2017 NeroMàccarj (made with organic fruit) shows rich intensity and lots of aromatic power despite the wine's contained fruit weight. Like other Sicilian reds from the hot and dry 2017 vintage, there is ample sweetness here and plenty of the fleshy, ripe fruit that characterizes this vintage. The NeroMàccarj is Nero d'Avola from a 2.5-hectare site with a mix of calcareous clay soils that allow for even fruit ripening." Wine Advocate

"Dark depths of rich black fruit, stone dust, sage, lavender and brown spice make up the bouquet of the 2017 NeroMaccarj. This balances sultry sex appeal with elegance from start to finish. Its textures are silky-smooth, complemented by ripe plums and currants, yet with a building salty tension as acids and minerals mix with hints of sour citrus. It cleans up beautifully through the finale, where framing tannins add a classically dry sensation under an air of violet flowers. Give this enticing Nero d'Avola another year or two of cellaring for the best results." Vinous

"Sweet-berry and cinnamon aromas follow through to a medium body with light yet fine tannins and a bright, fresh finish. From organically grown grapes. Really delicious now, but will improve with age." James Suckling

For some years now, Matteo Catania has been holding back a few hundred bottles of his wines in the best vintages in order to offer them to his most loyal importers after a few years. From this "private reserve" comes Nerobaronj 2014, which is now - in spring 2023 - being offered in small quantities with 5 years of further bottle ageing quasi in Riserva quality.

"Perfumed and remarkably pretty, the 2014 NeroBaronj emerges from the glass with a dusty mix of autumnal spices, sweet rose and vibrant, freshly squeezed black cherries. It has a creamy texture with a pleasing inner sweetness, while cool acidity enlivens the crisp wild berries and contrasting sour citrus tones within. A hint of tart concentration lingers at the edge of the palate, while a lingering note of red candy lingers in the middle. This is a highly appealing and potent version of NeroBaronj." Vinous

"Deep, earthy bouquet with lots of ripe black plums, plus fresh dates and figs. Rich and quite tannic, although these two aspects of the wine now harmonise well. Notes of leather and cloves develop with air. Confident, dry finish with a lovely powdery texture." James Suckling

Neromaccarj 2018 comes from a low-lying vineyard facing the sea and shows the ripe and juicy side of Nero d'Avola. The wine opens with a deep dark appearance and aromas that are dense and broad, forming a high wall of black plum fruit. The wine is very immediate and impressive, and you don't have to look far to recognise all these broad flavours on the nose. 6,500 bottles were produced. SUPERIORE.DE

"A certified organic wine, the Gulfi 2018 NeroMàccarj is a bit softer and riper next to the NeroSanloré that is also Nero d'Avola from one of the most dynamic estates in Sicily. The wine shows medium-rich extraction with some density that comes from skin maceration along with plump tannins. It offers an opulent and immediately accessible approach with 6,400 bottles released." Wine Advocate

"Juicy and tangy red with cherries, blackberries and some fresh and dried flowers. It’s medium-to full-bodied with layers of fruit and fine tannins. Yummy at the end." James Suckling

Deep, bright ruby red. Stunning aromas of floral dark berries, flint and attractive aromatic spices. Then fresh and juicy, but with a creeping concentration of blue and black fruit flavours lifted by a zesty minerality and lively, harmonious acidity. The spicy, long finish is reminiscent of cloves, black pepper and coriander. A great wine and we know now at the latest: The Catania family has a real knack for Cerasuolo di Vittoria. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich, dark ruby red. In the nose rich cherries, ripe raspberries, then earthy tones, noble mushrooms. Supple and gentle on the palate, opens on fresh raspberry syrup, salty, spans a beautiful arc, promising." Falstaff

"Fruity and fun, with ripe raspberries and hints of toasted marshmallow, nuts and orange peel. Medium-bodied, with a light grip and a tangy, fruity finish." James Suckling

"Deep ruby red. Intense violet/black cherry on the very perfumed nose. Dense and juicy, with aromas of ripe black cherries and candied violets accompanied by flint and aromatic spices. The finish is long with building tannins and a strong floral note coming from the frappato. An excellent Cerasuolo di Vittoria." Vinous

For some years now, Matteo Catania has been holding back a few hundred bottles of his wines in the best vintages in order to offer them to his most loyal importers after a few years. From this "private reserve" comes Nerobaronj 2008, which is now - in the spring of 2023 - being offered in small quantities with 11 years of further bottle ageing quasi in Riserva quality.

Deep ruby red. Intense scent of raspberry, red cherry, violets and spices. Sweet, spicy and yet light on its feet, it convinces with a great inner energy that gives the red fruits, herbs and mineral flavours an impressive expression. In the never-ending finish, Nerobaronj shows itself vibrant and with well-proportioned tannin that gives the certain persistence. SUPERIORE.DE

"An exotic melange of juicy dark cherries, freshly cut flowers, licorice and tobacco takes shape as this huge, racy wine shows off its irrepressible personality. The integrity of the fruit and the wine’s sheer balance are both marvelous to behold. Layers of fruit fill out the broad-shouldered finish beautifully. In 2008, the Nerobaronj is striking in every way. I loved it." Wine Advocate

Deep, bright ruby red. Stunning aromas of floral dark berries, flint and attractive aromatic spices. Then fresh and juicy, but with a creeping concentration of blue and black fruit flavours lifted by a zesty minerality and lively, harmonious acidity. The spicy, long finish is reminiscent of cloves, black pepper and coriander. A great wine and we know now at the latest: The Catania family has a real knack for Cerasuolo di Vittoria. SUPERIORE.DE

"Tons of blackberries and plums for this appellation that usually shines with red fruit character, but this bold and stylish wine works very well. With a little aeration, candied orange character pours from the glass. Powdery tannins and delicate spice notes on the fresh, dry finish." James Suckling

"The Cerasuolo di Vittoria Classico 2018 increases in depth and richness without losing symmetry. Dark flowers and brown spices complement notes of preserved blackberries and sage. It is silky and supple, balancing mineral black fruits and herbal notes with vibrant acidity. Violet pastilles and blueberry skins linger long on the purple-tinged final. This is an elegant and deeply satisfying blend of 70% Nero d'Avola and 30% Frappato that spends 10 months in tonneaux; the wood is beautifully integrated here." Vinous

For some years now, Matteo Catania has been holding back a few hundred bottles of his wines in the best vintages in order to offer them to his most loyal importers after a few years. From this "private reserve" comes Neromaccarj 2010, which is now - in spring 2023 - offered in small quantities with 9 years of further bottle ageing quasi in Riserva quality.

Dark colour, beautiful bouquet of Mediterranean herbs and balsamic notes, ripe, fruity morello cherry and date fruit, rich in silky tannins, that's how it is, the magnificent and expressive Nero d'Avola single-vineyard wine Neromaccarj. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich ruby with bright violet glints. Multi-layered and inviting nose, smells of dried tomatoes, fresh plums and blackberries, also sandalwood and pepper. Lots of juicy, present fruit on the palate, fresh and crisp, then opens with fine-grained tannin, salty and persistent on the final." Falstaff

"Gulfi's wines are characterized by thick concentration, dark extraction and full throttle aromas. The 2010 Neromàccarj shows all of those qualities in ample doses. You really get a sense of the hot Sicilian summer as you contemplate the bouquet. Sweet cherry and ripe blackberry are the dominant aromas. Dig deeper and subtle tones of grilled herb, licorice and crushed mineral also begin to appear. These aromas build in intensity as the wine takes on more air in the glass. The tannins are soft and the finish is long." Wine Advocate

For some years now, Matteo Catania has been holding back a few hundred bottles of his wines in the best vintages in order to offer them to his most loyal importers after a few years. From this "private reserve" comes Neromaccarj 2011, which is now - in spring 2023 - offered in small quantities with 8 years of further bottle ageing quasi in Riserva quality.

Dark colour, beautiful bouquet of Mediterranean herbs and balsamic notes, ripe, fruity morello cherry and date fruit, rich in silky tannins, that's how it is, the magnificent and expressive Nero d'Avola single-vineyard wine Neromaccarj. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2011 Neromàccarj is the wine that, in my opinion, best encompasses the overall winemaking philosophy at Gulfi. Like the other Nero d'Avola selections presented, this wine boasts a super enriched and concentrated style. On top of black fruit and cherry marmalade, the bouquet offers Teriyaki, barbecue smoke and asphalt-like aromas. Neromàccarj presents a more balanced and complete picture because its large bulk is spread evenly in proportioned elements. In other words, the opulence of the bouquet is perfectly matched to the large footprint left on the finish." Wine Advocate

Nerobufaleffj is a very unusual wine for Sicily. It offers an aromatic intensity not found anywhere else in southern Italy. The bouquet is explosive with powerful cherries, dried blackberries, tobacco and spices. Subtle hints of cinnamon and crushed clove. An exotic red of high concentration and power with a wonderfully complex, long finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"A certified organic Nero d'Avola, the Gulfi 2018 NeroBufaleffj reveals dark fruit, dried plum and fig. The wine offers rich concentration and soft tannins with plenty of dark, sweet fruit on the close. It concludes with a touch of sweetness and ripe flavors. The fruit is sourced from a three-hectare site at 50 meters above sea level with an incredible mix of white limestone soils, black clay and red sand." Wine Advocate

"The aromas of the 2018 NeroBufaleffj are unobtrusive and require coaxing to release a pretty blend of blackcurrants with violets and a hint of sweet smoke. On the palate, the NeroBufaleffj is round and smooth, with mineral red fruits and a touch of sour citrus adding to the contrast. A bitter aftertaste lingers through to the final as the 2018 finishes with crisp tannins and a hint of black liquorice. The meatiness and minerality of the Bufaleffj comes through here, but in a more approachable package." Vinous

"It has an enticing nose of purple cherries, mulberries, sage, olives, nutmeg, orange peel and dried flowers. Medium to full body with a fantastic balance of ripe fruit, spice and zesty freshness. Very drinkable." James Suckling

Precise aromas of ripe red cherries, flint, orange peel, lavender and violets. Silky and juicy on the palate, with a refined but very concentrated extract that almost crushes the taste buds, yet remains lively and not at all heavy, giving beautiful definition and lift to the red cherry, raspberry, floral and mineral flavours. The finish is very deep and long, with very soft tannins, a beguiling perfume and extreme finesse; very Barolo-like. A beautiful, complex wine that shows the elegant side of Nero d'Avola that few producers are ever able to present. SUPERIORE.DE

"The organic Gulfi 2017 NeroSanloré is packed dense at its core and offers a very true portrait of the Sicilian grape from a hot vintage. There is a lot of extra ripeness that is delivered amply across the wine's dark fruit flavors and its soft textural richness. Nero d'Avola is planted across three hectares in reddish sandy soils. Like other wines from this vintage, it delivers a front-loaded effect. In other words, you get a great deal of ripeness and aromatic intensity on first inspection, but the wine is ultimately milder and shorter in terms of finish. However you look at it, this is a versatile, fruit-forward Sicilian red." Wine Advocate

"Old tile and ripe berry with some flowers and nuts. Just a hint of dried fruit. Full-bodied with round, succulent tannins and a juicy and tangy finish." James Suckling

"The 2017 NeroSanlorè is the dusty, spicy and elegant beauty of the Gulfi Nero d’Avola range. The bouquet presents a beguiling mix of crushed stone, roses, incense and tart cherries. It’s soft and almost weightless in feel, hovering across the palate with a refined display of red berries and inner florals. A subtle coating of tannin lingers, but does not get in the way as this finishes with sweet minerals and hints of tangerine. Give the Sanlorè a year or two to come further into focus and flesh out a bit more. From the Gulfi crus, this is the vineyard closest to the sea, less than 700 meters away, and at only 10–15 meters above sea level, with vines growing in sandy soils. It is simply stunning." Vinous

For some years now, Matteo Catania has been holding back a few hundred bottles of his wines in the best vintages in order to offer them to his most loyal importers after a few years. From this "private reserve" comes Nerosanloré 2014, which is now - in spring 2023 - being offered in small quantities with 5 years of further bottle ageing quasi in Riserva quality.

Precise aromas of ripe red cherries, flint, orange peel, lavender and violets. Silky and juicy on the palate, with a refined but very concentrated extract that almost crushes the taste buds, yet remains lively and not at all heavy, giving beautiful definition and lift to the red cherry, raspberry, floral and mineral flavours. The finish is very deep and long, with very soft tannins, a beguiling perfume and extreme finesse; very Barolo-like. A beautiful, complex wine that shows the elegant side of Nero d'Avola that few producers are ever able to present. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2014 NeroSanloré has a more mature bouquet than the other contradas tasted next to it, yet that's not to say that it’s any less pleasurable. Dark soil tones, tobacco, brown spice, cherry and plum sauce fill the glass with each swirl. It is velvety in feel yet lifted in weight, with tart red berries and saline-minerals that give way to rosy inner florals. A sweet and sour twang keeps the mouth watering through the licorice-tinged finale, as subtle tannins pinch at the cheeks, which keeps me looking back to the glass for more." Vinous

"Complex nose of black plum, bitter chocolate, balsamic vinegar, candied orange and a slew of baking spices. After all this extravagance, you might expect a soft and lush wine, but this full-bodied red has a very solid core of healthy tannin and is decisively dry. Surprisingly crisp finish." James Suckling

"This wine shows medium dark concentration, a distinguishing trait of this vintage. The aromas have embraced elegant tertiary definition with dried fruit, dark plummy flavors, spice, earth and smoky tar. The wine is drinking beautifully right now and gives us valuable and encouraging insight to the aging ability of this popular indigenous grape from Sicily." Wine Advocate

For some years now, Matteo Catania has been holding back a few hundred bottles of his wines in the best vintages in order to offer them to his most loyal importers after a few years. From this "private reserve" comes Nerosanloré 2013, which is now - in spring 2023 - offered in small quantities with 6 years of further bottle ageing quasi in Riserva quality.

Bright red-ruby. Perfumed aromas of violets, red cherries, raspberries, Mediterranean herbs and thyme. Then dense but juicy, with harmonious acidity that nicely lifts and prolongs the juicy, very pure, overripe red cherry and berry flavours on the long, mineral finish. Despite its maturity, the wine seems supple and is a real beauty! SUPERIORE.DE

"I love the intense herb-liqueur and balsamic-vinegar character on the nose, also because its married to delicious richness. Still very lively for a five-year-old red and the balance of ripeness and rather supple tannins is impressive. Long finish." James Suckling

"The 2013 Sicilia Nerosanloré is a rich and plush red wine with a mid-weight approach backed by lots of rich fiber and fruity thickness. The house style at Gulfi always prizes ripeness and higher-than-average concentration. Blackberry preserves and cherry confit are backed by spice, sweet tobacco and sticky tar. The San Lorenzo vineyard site enjoys the highest altitude of all these cru sites. It is located at 600 meters above sea level and has red sandy soils." Wine Advocate

For some years now, Matteo Catania has been holding back a few hundred bottles of his wines in the best vintages in order to offer them to his most loyal importers after a few years. From this "private reserve" comes Nerosanloré 2012, which is now - in spring 2023 - offered in small quantities with 7 years of further bottle ageing quasi in Riserva quality.

An exceptionally characterful and powerful Nero d'Avola is the Nerosanloré. From a beautiful vineyard in Pacchino, the area of origin of the famous vine. Mineral, vital, ripe, elegant, long finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep ruby red. Refined, highly complex aromas of blueberries, flint, exotic spices, faded flowers, cumin and cardamom. Bright, juicy and penetrating on the palate, with great mid-palate energy and a brooding quality to the very deep but currently subtle spicy red and blue fruit flavours. It rises impressively on the back palate, which is elegant and perfumed, with soft, fine-grained tannins, a restrained sweetness and a lingering flinty nuance. A remarkably deep, complex NeroSanlorè." VINOUS

For some years now, Matteo Catania has been holding back a few hundred bottles of his wines in the best vintages in order to offer them to his most loyal importers after a few years. From this "private reserve" comes Nerosanloré 2009, which is now - in the spring of 2023 - being offered in small quantities with 10 years of further bottle ageing quasi in Riserva quality.

An exceptionally characterful and powerful Nero d'Avola is the Nerosanloré. From a beautiful vineyard in Pacchino, the area of origin of the famous vine. Mineral, vital, ripe, elegant, long finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"The bouquet of the 2009 Nerosanlorè exudes sweet aromas of toasted oak and baking spices. This is a very elaborate red wine that shows the craftsmanship and work of the winemaker. The bouquet is complex with aromas of ripe fruit, blackberry compote, tobacco and lots of spices from the long oak ageing. In addition, the wine offers abundant tertiary aromas of liquorice, resin and tar. This is a very attractive red wine that brings all the power and sunshine of Sicily to your glass. At 14.5% alcohol, it has power and determination." Wine Advocate

"Notes of pureed black cherries and dates mingle with dried herbs, mocha and black olive tapenades in this juicy red wine framed by gentle tannins. Harmonious and fresh, with a lingering aniseed-flavoured finish." Wine Spectator

"Beautiful full ruby red. Overripe aromas of black cherries, capers, sun-dried tomatoes and sweet oak lifted by a floral top note. Fat and sweet in the mouth, with a high, liqueur-like quality to the ripe red fruits and salty bottom notes. It finishes with creamy, smooth tannins and excellent length. VINOUS

For some years now, Matteo Catania has been holding back a few hundred bottles of his wines in the best vintages in order to offer them to his most loyal importers after a few years. From this "private reserve" comes Nerosanloré 2010, which is now - in spring 2023 - offered in small quantities with 9 years of further bottle ageing quasi in Riserva quality.

Bright red. Precise, brooding aromas of ripe red cherries, flint, orange peel, cinnamon, lavender and violets, complicated by iodine and earth. Silky and juicy with a refined but very concentrated extract that tantalises the taste buds but remains lively and not at all heavy, adding lovely definition and lift to the red cherry, raspberry, floral and mineral flavours. The finish is very deep and long, with very soft tannins, a fascinating fragrance in the mouth and extreme finesse. SUPERIORE.DE

"Fully saturated ruby. Pure, very deep aromas of black cherry, red plum, medicinal herbs and minerals. Rich, dense and suave, with complex flavors of saline red berries and dark plum complicated by repeating botanical herb and balsamic nuances. Finishes seamless an long. A wine of noteworthy purity, with an excellent balance of sweetness, acidity and tannins. This is Gulfi's closest vineyard to the sea and almost always gives the estate's most elegant, refined wine." Vinous

Gulfi's top Pinò is a pure expression of Pinot Nero from Etna. When the Etna appellation began its rise about ten years ago, many producers committed themselves to growing the Burgundian grape variety on the charred slopes of this mighty volcano. Significant plantings of Pinot Nero never occurred, however, as many winemakers opted instead for the autochthonous Nerello Mascalese grape variety. Gulfi remains faithful to Pinot Nero on Etna, the grapes for Pinò come from 800 metres above sea level on the northern slope of the volcano.

It opens with a dark saturated colour and heavy aromas of dried cherries and cassis, plus a hint of floral notes. Its mouthfeel is polished and fresh, on the palate Pinò shows all the characteristics of a lean, compact but very intense wine that has plenty of tension and energy. Its slightly bitter note, a combination of cherry pits and sour citrus fruits, lasts until the tense final. Ultimately, this wine is more an expression of the Etna than the grape variety, its proud yet joyful personality making it irresistible. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2016 Pinò, or Pinot Noir, is much darker in the glass that you might anticipate. It delivers masses of ripe black cherries and sweet autumnal spice, all engulfed in an air of crushed-stone minerality. The textures are silky, cast upon a medium-bodied frame, with tart cherry and balsam herbs energized by brisk acidity. Notes of licorice and rich plum sauce linger as this tapers off with a delicate feel. The Pinò hails from the northern slope of Etna, with vines planted in 2008 at 800 meters of elevation." Vinous

"An excellent pinot noir from Sicily? Yes! The wild-strawberry and sour-cherry nose pulls you into this ripe yet elegant red that's very silky, in spite of the healthy tannins that anchor it at the deep, dark finish. Plenty of life ahead of it!" James Suckling

"The organic Gulfi 2016 Pinò gives us a good look at Pinot Noir cultivated on the volcanic soils of Etna at an impressive 850 meters above sea level where solar luminosity is aplenty but average temperatures are cooler. With a restrained 13% alcohol content, this wine delivers elegant and lean fruit weight with steady aromas of cassis, wild cherry and summer rose. The wine's overall personality remains subdued and true to the grape with plenty of fresh berry fruit spread over a lean and crisp mouthfeel. The results are terrific in this 3,000-bottle release that should hold firm to the 10-year mark and beyond. Despite these extreme growing conditions, this wine remains elegant and pure." Wine Advocate

Nerobufaleffj is a very unusual wine for Sicily. It offers an aromatic intensity not found anywhere else in southern Italy. The bouquet is explosive with powerful cherries, dried blackberries, tobacco and spices. Subtle hints of cinnamon and crushed clove. An exotic red of high concentration and power with a wonderfully complex, long finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2017 NeroBufaleffj offers medium-dark concentration and lots of aromatic intensity that closely reflects the varietal purity of this wine. Black cherry and dried blackberry segue to spice, scorched earth and roasted eggplant. This was a hot vintage, but the wine's fruit definition remains crisp and linear nonetheless. NeroBufaleffj is born on a three-hectare site with a unique mix of black clay, white limestone and reddish sandy soils. These unique conditions shape this wine's special identity. It's a good occasion to crack out a very Sicilian recipe of stuffed pork ribs, or costate di maiale ripiene." Wine Advocate

"Ripe berries and hazelnuts on the nose with some mushrooms and dried flowers, as well as cedar and mahogany. Full-bodied with layers of ripe fruit and a sour-cherry element at the finish. Juicy and delicious." James Suckling

"Dark depths of rich black fruit, stone dust, sage, lavender and brown spice make up the bouquet of the 2017 NeroBufaleffj. This balances sultry sex appeal with elegance from start to finish. Its textures are silky-smooth, complemented by ripe plums and currants, yet with a building salty tension as acids and minerals mix with hints of sour citrus. It cleans up beautifully through the finale, where framing tannins add a classically dry sensation under an air of violet flowers. Give this enticing Nero d'Avola another year or two of cellaring for the best results." Vinous

For some years now, Matteo Catania has been holding back a few hundred bottles of his wines in the best vintages in order to offer them to his most loyal importers after a few years. From this "private reserve" comes Nerosanloré 2014, which is now - in spring 2023 - being offered in small quantities with 5 years of further bottle ageing quasi in Riserva quality.

Precise aromas of ripe red cherries, flint, orange peel, lavender and violets. Silky and juicy on the palate, with a refined but very concentrated extract that almost crushes the taste buds, yet remains lively and not at all heavy, giving beautiful definition and lift to the red cherry, raspberry, floral and mineral flavours. The finish is very deep and long, with very soft tannins, a beguiling perfume and extreme finesse; very Barolo-like. A beautiful, complex wine that shows the elegant side of Nero d'Avola that few producers are ever able to present. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2014 NeroSanloré has a more mature bouquet than the other contradas tasted next to it, yet that's not to say that it’s any less pleasurable. Dark soil tones, tobacco, brown spice, cherry and plum sauce fill the glass with each swirl. It is velvety in feel yet lifted in weight, with tart red berries and saline-minerals that give way to rosy inner florals. A sweet and sour twang keeps the mouth watering through the licorice-tinged finale, as subtle tannins pinch at the cheeks, which keeps me looking back to the glass for more." Vinous

"Complex nose of black plum, bitter chocolate, balsamic vinegar, candied orange and a slew of baking spices. After all this extravagance, you might expect a soft and lush wine, but this full-bodied red has a very solid core of healthy tannin and is decisively dry. Surprisingly crisp finish." James Suckling

"This wine shows medium dark concentration, a distinguishing trait of this vintage. The aromas have embraced elegant tertiary definition with dried fruit, dark plummy flavors, spice, earth and smoky tar. The wine is drinking beautifully right now and gives us valuable and encouraging insight to the aging ability of this popular indigenous grape from Sicily." Wine Advocate

Gulfi's top Pinò is a pure expression of Pinot Nero from Etna. When the Etna appellation began its rise about ten years ago, many producers committed themselves to growing the Burgundian grape variety on the charred slopes of this mighty volcano. Significant plantings of Pinot Nero never occurred, however, as many winemakers opted instead for the autochthonous Nerello Mascalese grape variety. Gulfi remains faithful to Pinot Nero on Etna, the grapes for Pinò come from 800 metres above sea level on the northern slope of the volcano.

It opens with a dark saturated colour and heavy aromas of dried cherries and cassis, plus a hint of floral notes. Its mouthfeel is polished and fresh, on the palate Pinò shows all the characteristics of a lean, compact but very intense wine that has plenty of tension and energy. Its slightly bitter note, a combination of cherry pits and sour citrus fruits, lasts until the tense final. Ultimately, this wine is more an expression of the Etna than the grape variety, its proud yet joyful personality making it irresistible. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2016 Pinò, or Pinot Noir, is much darker in the glass that you might anticipate. It delivers masses of ripe black cherries and sweet autumnal spice, all engulfed in an air of crushed-stone minerality. The textures are silky, cast upon a medium-bodied frame, with tart cherry and balsam herbs energized by brisk acidity. Notes of licorice and rich plum sauce linger as this tapers off with a delicate feel. The Pinò hails from the northern slope of Etna, with vines planted in 2008 at 800 meters of elevation." Vinous

"An excellent pinot noir from Sicily? Yes! The wild-strawberry and sour-cherry nose pulls you into this ripe yet elegant red that's very silky, in spite of the healthy tannins that anchor it at the deep, dark finish. Plenty of life ahead of it!" James Suckling

"The organic Gulfi 2016 Pinò gives us a good look at Pinot Noir cultivated on the volcanic soils of Etna at an impressive 850 meters above sea level where solar luminosity is aplenty but average temperatures are cooler. With a restrained 13% alcohol content, this wine delivers elegant and lean fruit weight with steady aromas of cassis, wild cherry and summer rose. The wine's overall personality remains subdued and true to the grape with plenty of fresh berry fruit spread over a lean and crisp mouthfeel. The results are terrific in this 3,000-bottle release that should hold firm to the 10-year mark and beyond. Despite these extreme growing conditions, this wine remains elegant and pure." Wine Advocate