Cusumano
Terre Siciliane Merlot
Sicily, Italy
Nice nose of smokey notes, blackberries and cherries on the palate. A bit short on the finish.
Nice nose of smokey notes, blackberries and cherries on the palate. A bit short on the finish.
1 person found it helpfulAug 8th, 2015
Cusumano – Merlot Terre Siciliane IGT 2023
Sicily – Italy 🇮🇹
Overview
Cusumano is one of Sicily’s most progressive family-owned wineries, blending modern winemaking with the island’s ancient terroirs. This 100% Merlot comes from vineyards planted in the rolling hills of the Terre Siciliane IGT, showcasing how international varieties thrive under Sicily’s Mediterranean sun and volcanic-influenced soils.
Aromas & Flavors
Plum, blackberry, and red cherry dominate the nose, with soft accents of violets, Mediterranean herbs, and a touch of cocoa. On the palate, it’s juicy and fruit-driven, supported by hints of spice and earth that keep it grounded.
Mouthfeel
Smooth and medium-bodied, with round tannins and fresh acidity. A vibrant, approachable wine that finishes gently with a fruity, slightly savory edge.
Winemaking Notes
Vinified in stainless steel to preserve freshness and fruit purity, with short aging in neutral vessels. Cusumano’s style emphasizes clean, modern lines rather than heavy oak influence.
Food Pairing
Perfect with pasta alla norma, margherita pizza, grilled sausages, or aged caciocavallo cheese. Its balance of fruit and freshness makes it versatile for everyday Mediterranean dining.
Verdict
An easy-drinking, modern Sicilian Merlot that’s both accessible and expressive of place. Proof that international grapes can shine beautifully on the island, especially when crafted with balance and restraint. A la salute!
Cusumano – Merlot Terre Siciliane IGT 2023
Sicily – Italy 🇮🇹
Overview
Cusumano is one of Sicily’s most progressive family-owned wineries, blending modern winemaking with the island’s ancient terroirs. This 100% Merlot comes from vineyards planted in the rolling hills of the Terre Siciliane IGT, showcasing how international varieties thrive under Sicily’s Mediterranean sun and volcanic-influenced soils.
Aromas & Flavors
Plum, blackberry, and red cherry dominate the nose, with soft accents of violets, Mediterranean herbs, and a touch of cocoa. On the palate, it’s juicy and fruit-driven, supported by hints of spice and earth that keep it grounded.
Mouthfeel
Smooth and medium-bodied, with round tannins and fresh acidity. A vibrant, approachable wine that finishes gently with a fruity, slightly savory edge.
Winemaking Notes
Vinified in stainless steel to preserve freshness and fruit purity, with short aging in neutral vessels. Cusumano’s style emphasizes clean, modern lines rather than heavy oak influence.
Food Pairing
Perfect with pasta alla norma, margherita pizza, grilled sausages, or aged caciocavallo cheese. Its balance of fruit and freshness makes it versatile for everyday Mediterranean dining.
Verdict
An easy-drinking, modern Sicilian Merlot that’s both accessible and expressive of place. Proof that international grapes can shine beautifully on the island, especially when crafted with balance and restraint. A la salute!
Gift. Medium body. Not too sweet, smooth. Little acidic at the end. Not special, nothing jumps out, But overall Easy drinker. Would drink again.
Gift. Medium body. Not too sweet, smooth. Little acidic at the end. Not special, nothing jumps out, But overall Easy drinker. Would drink again.
Oct 18th, 2019
Ruby colour, light berry smell, blackcurrant flavours.
Ruby colour, light berry smell, blackcurrant flavours.
May 18th, 2018
Smells of strong notes of blackberry and tobacco, tastes of fresh fruit with leather/tobacco flavors. Disappointing short finish that lacks much flavor. Light bodied.
Smells of strong notes of blackberry and tobacco, tastes of fresh fruit with leather/tobacco flavors. Disappointing short finish that lacks much flavor. Light bodied.
Dec 3rd, 2017Nice a good balance of tannin and acidity.
Nice a good balance of tannin and acidity.
Nov 25th, 2017
I liked this a lot.
It is clear medium ruby.
The nose is clean of medium (+) intensity. Aromas of black current and cherry, dark chocolate, forest floor and nutmeg spice.
On the palate it is dry, medium (+) acid and soft tannins. The alcohol is medium, body and intensity are medium (+) with flavours the same as the nose but the are clear and layered. The finish is medium (+)
This is a very good quality wine. You can drink now but the fresh fruit means it can age a few more years too.
I liked this a lot.
It is clear medium ruby.
The nose is clean of medium (+) intensity. Aromas of black current and cherry, dark chocolate, forest floor and nutmeg spice.
On the palate it is dry, medium (+) acid and soft tannins. The alcohol is medium, body and intensity are medium (+) with flavours the same as the nose but the are clear and layered. The finish is medium (+)
This is a very good quality wine. You can drink now but the fresh fruit means it can age a few more years too.