2023 Catina Horus, Frappato "Sole e Terra", Vittoria
Cantina Horus is a dynamic, family-run estate located in the rolling hills of Vittoria, in the southeastern corner of Sicily. Founded with a vision to preserve the wild beauty of the island's unique ecosystems, the winery works in absolute harmony with nature, farming all of their vineyards under strict certified organic principles. The estate is strongly influenced by its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea and its high sunshine hours, which are offset by cooling maritime breezes at night. Horus is dedicated almost exclusively to native Sicilian varieties, utilizing traditional farming to craft wines that emphasize the pure, unadulterated essence of the Vittoria terroir.
The 2023 "Sole e Terra" is a gorgeous, pure expression of Frappato, a grape celebrated for its highly aromatic, light-bodied, and joyful personality. Grown on high-altitude sandy plateaus, the fruit is hand-harvested and undergoes a gentle fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats to preserve its delicate aromatics. By completely avoiding any oak contact, the "Sole e Terra" (Sun and Earth) showcases the crystalline varietal character of Frappato. The 2023 vintage is remarkably bright and crunch-textured, offering a youthful, high-toned red wine that defies the typical perception of hot, heavy Sicilian reds.
Why You’ll Love it
This is a spectacular, light-bodied red wine that serves as Sicily's answer to a fine Cru Beaujolais or a bright Pinot Noir.
The 2023 vintage is extraordinarily expressive, bursting from the glass with a perfume of fresh red cherries, wild strawberries, pomegranate, and red licorice.
On the palate, it delivers a burst of juicy, crunch-textured fruit that is instantly refreshed by a lively, mouthwatering thread of natural acidity.
The tannins are incredibly soft and gossamer-light, creating a smooth and effortless mouthfeel that makes it dangerous to put down.
It finishes with a highly distinct note of blood orange zest and a touch of wild Mediterranean herbs, leaving a clean, uplifting impression.
How To Serve It
Serve this wine with a light chill, ideally between 54°F and 56°F, to maximize its crunchy fruit character and keep the finish incredibly snappy.
No decanting is required; this fresh and energetic red is highly aromatic and fully expressive right from the moment the cork is pulled.
Pour into appropriate red stemware to allow the high-toned berry perfumes and delicate floral notes plenty of room to expand.
It is a remarkably versatile food wine that pairs beautifully with grilled salmon, tuna tartare, dynamic tomato-based pastas, or a light charcuterie board.
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