Produced by Arianna Occhipinti in Vittoria, south-eastern Sicily, Vino di Contrada Fossa di Lupo 2020 is a profound single-vineyard expression of Frappato from one of Italy's most influential artisan winemakers. Since establishing her estate in 2004, Arianna Occhipinti has earned international acclaim for reviving the identity of Vittoria through wines that faithfully express their place of origin. The estate is certified organic, with vineyards farmed by hand using a holistic, low-intervention philosophy that prioritises healthy soils, biodiversity and the natural balance of the vines. The Fossa di Lupo contrada sits at around 280 metres above sea level on the Iblei Plateau, where traditional alberello (bush-trained) vines grow in distinctive red sandy soils rich in limestone and mineral elements. Like the great crus of Burgundy, each Contrada bottling is produced to reveal the unique personality of its individual vineyard, and Fossa di Lupo is recognised for producing the most structured, mineral and age-worthy expression of Frappato in the range.
Made from 100% Frappato, Fossa di Lupo 2020 perfectly illustrates the elegance and remarkable ageing potential of this indigenous Sicilian variety. The grapes are hand-harvested and fermented spontaneously with indigenous yeasts before a long maceration and maturation in large neutral Slavonian oak botti, preserving the purity of the vineyard rather than the influence of oak. The wine is bottled unfined and unfiltered with only minimal sulphur additions, reflecting Arianna Occhipinti's genuine low-intervention approach. The outstanding 2020 vintage brings exceptional precision and balance, revealing aromas of wild strawberry, Morello cherry, blood orange and rose petals, intertwined with Mediterranean herbs, white pepper, earthy spice and pronounced mineral notes. The palate is silky yet surprisingly structured, combining vibrant acidity, refined tannins and an exceptionally long, savoury finish. A benchmark expression of Frappato and one of Sicily's most compelling terroir wines, it pairs beautifully with roasted poultry, tuna, mushroom dishes, grilled vegetables and refined Mediterranean cuisine.
