Cerasuolo di Vittoria DOCG Wine Guide

What Is Cerasuolo di Vittoria DOCG?

Cerasuolo di Vittoria DOCG is Sicily’s only DOCG wine—a vibrant, cherry-hued red that captures the island’s warmth, history, and Mediterranean spirit. A blend of Nero d’Avola and Frappato, it balances rich fruit with lifted aromatics, offering a style that feels both deeply rooted and refreshingly modern.

History and Origins

The name Cerasuolo comes from cerasa, the Sicilian word for cherry—a nod to the wine’s signature ruby color and juicy, red-fruited character. The tradition of blending Nero d’Avola’s depth with Frappato’s fragrance dates back to the 17th century, centered around the town of Vittoria in southeastern Sicily.

In 2005, Cerasuolo di Vittoria achieved DOCG status—the highest quality designation in Italy—cementing its role as Sicily’s flagship fine wine.

Geography & Terroir

The DOCG lies in southeastern Sicily, covering the provinces of Ragusa, Caltanissetta, and Catania. Here, rolling hills meet coastal breezes, creating a Mediterranean climate with hot days, cool nights, and marine influence.

Soils range from sandy and calcareous to clay-rich, influencing the wine’s balance: lighter, more perfumed styles in sandy soils, and deeper, structured expressions in clay and limestone.

[Insert Map of the DOCG Zone with metadata: “Cerasuolo di Vittoria DOCG Map – Sicily’s only DOCG wine region”]

Grapes & Blend

The DOCG requires:

• 50–70% Nero d’Avola (also called Calabrese): brings structure, dark fruit, and spice.
  
• 30–50% Frappato: adds floral lift, cherry brightness, and silky texture.
  

The combination is uniquely Sicilian, weaving together power and elegance.

Winemaking & Regulations

Two styles exist:

• Cerasuolo di Vittoria DOCG: Aged for a minimum of 18 months.
  
• Cerasuolo di Vittoria Classico DOCG: From the historic core zone, aged for 30+ months before release, with greater complexity and aging potential.
  

Comparison Table: Rosso vs. Classico

Style	Aging	Character	Price Range	Terroir Notes
DOCG (Rosso)	18 months	Fresh, juicy, approachable	$$	Sandier soils, lighter body
Classico	30+ months	Complex, structured, cellar-worthy	$$$–$$$$	Clay/limestone, more depth

Key Facts at a Glance

• Region: Southeastern Sicily (Ragusa, Caltanissetta, Catania)
  
• Status: Sicily’s only DOCG (since 2005)
  
• Grapes: 50–70% Nero d’Avola, 30–50% Frappato
  
• Aging: 18 months (Rosso) / 30 months (Classico)
  
• Style: Medium-bodied, cherry-driven, aromatic
  
• Alcohol: Typically 13–14%
  

Tasting Notes

Expect a brilliant ruby color with aromas of cherry, raspberry, pomegranate, and rose petals, layered with hints of spice, licorice, and Mediterranean herbs.

On the palate: juicy red fruit, silky tannins, and lively acidity, making it both versatile and age-worthy. Classico versions reveal more earthy depth, leather, and cocoa.

Serving & Pairing

• Ideal Temperature: 16–18°C (60–64°F)
  
• Glassware: Burgundy-style stem to enhance aromatics
  
• Food Pairings:
  
  • Sicilian arancini, caponata, and grilled swordfish
    
  • Lamb with herbs, roasted pork, or chicken with tomatoes
    
  • Eggplant parmigiana, pizza with spicy salumi
    
  • Pecorino Siciliano and aged caciocavallo
    

Where to Buy & Pricing

Bottles of Cerasuolo di Vittoria DOCG typically range from $20–$35, while Classico versions can reach $50–$80+ depending on producer and vintage.

Notable producers include:

• COS – pioneers of amphora aging
  
• Planeta – modern elegance with Sicilian roots
  
• Valle dell’Acate – classic expressions with finesse
  

[Add Product Schema: COS Cerasuolo di Vittoria Classico DOCG]

FAQ on Cerasuolo di Vittoria DOCG

Is Cerasuolo di Vittoria the same as Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo?
No. Despite the similar names, they are completely different wines. Cerasuolo di Vittoria is a red DOCG from Sicily, while Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo is a rosé-style DOC from Abruzzo.

Can Cerasuolo di Vittoria age well?
Yes. Rosso versions drink beautifully young, while Classico styles can age 10–15 years, gaining complexity.

Why is it Sicily’s only DOCG wine?
Because of its unique historical blend, terroir identity, and consistent quality—qualities that earned it Italy’s highest recognition.

Fun Facts & Cultural Notes

• The town of Vittoria was founded in 1607 by a noblewoman, Vittoria Colonna, who encouraged vineyards as part of its growth.
  
• Locals often call it the “wine of the cherry tree” for its color and fruitiness.
  
• COS, one of its leading wineries, revived ancient amphora winemaking, linking Sicily’s wines to their Greek heritage.

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Or take it further: Download our Italian Wine Pairing Guide and learn how to match wines like Cerasuolo di Vittoria with your favorite dishes.

Have fun to learn more about Italian Wines and Spirits! Explore also the non-alcoholic beverages 
Send us an email if you want to suggest edits, or if you are looking for more info, at
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If you are in the mood for a good book, you can try:
– The Modern History of Italian Wine by Walter Filipputti
– Hidden Gems of Italy: An Insider’s Secret Formula To Find Top-Class Italian Wines At Value Prices And Taste La Dolce Vita by Tony Margiotta  

Additionally, you can discover the other wines from Sicilia.