Produced by Donnafugata in western Sicily, Mille e Una Notte is the estate’s flagship red wine and one of Sicily’s modern icons. Founded in 1983 by the Rallo family, Donnafugata has played a pioneering role in establishing Sicily as one of the world’s great fine wine regions, combining innovation with a deep respect for the island’s diverse terroirs and native varieties. The grapes for Mille e Una Notte come from the Contessa Entellina estate in south-western Sicily, where warm Mediterranean days, cool night-time temperatures and well-drained hillside soils allow the fruit to ripen fully while preserving freshness and aromatic complexity. The 2008 vintage produced wines of exceptional balance and elegance, with excellent structure and remarkable ageing potential.
Predominantly made from Nero d’Avola, complemented by small proportions of international varieties selected each vintage, Mille e Una Notte is fermented under carefully controlled conditions before ageing in French oak barrels and extended bottle maturation. After more than fifteen years in bottle, the 2008 has evolved into a beautifully complex expression of mature Sicilian fine wine. The bouquet reveals layers of black cherry, blackberry and plum intertwined with tobacco, cedar, dark chocolate, sweet spice, liquorice, balsamic herbs, leather and hints of truffle. Rich yet impeccably balanced, the palate combines polished tannins, vibrant acidity and remarkable freshness with a long, elegant finish. A benchmark Sicilian red with outstanding ageing ability, it pairs superbly with roast lamb, slow-cooked beef, game, mushroom dishes and mature cheeses.
