2020 Mazzei Zisola Noto Rosso Sicily
- "Soft and Flavorful. Drink NOW!" ~92 James Suckling
- Crafted by Tuscany’s Legendary Mazzei Family
- Born from Mount Etna’s Unique Volcanic Terroir
- 92 Point Vintage ~Vinous Media
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About the Wine
Sicily. A land where people live vibrant, long lives—where nature’s power and human resilience blend seamlessly. While not officially a Blue Zone, Sicily shares many of the qualities that contribute to longevity: a rich, fresh Mediterranean diet, strong family ties, and an environment that nurtures vitality. And in every glass of the 2020 Mazzei Zisola Noto Rosso, you’re tasting that same vitality—captured by nature and refined by the Mazzei family.
The Mazzei family, Tuscan-royalty and producers of some of the most coveted wines in the region, brings their centuries of expertise to Sicily. Known for their storied history in creating iconic Tuscan wines like Castello di Fonterutoli and Ser Lapo, the Mazzei family’s philosophy has always been about respecting tradition while pushing the boundaries of winemaking excellence. Since acquiring the Zisola estate in 2002, they’ve set out to showcase the full potential of Sicily’s terroir, bringing a new level of sophistication to the island’s winemaking landscape.
Located in the UNESCO-protected region of Noto, surrounded by the lush, volcanic soils of Mount Etna, the Zisola estate benefits from both the Mediterranean breezes and the intense heat of Etna’s volcanic activity. It’s a combination that fosters exceptional complexity and character in the wine. Here, the Mazzei family cultivates the Nero d’Avola grape, alongside smaller amounts of Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petit Verdot, all planted in the traditional alberello (free-standing) style to ensure the best sun exposure and airflow for the vines.
The winemaking here respects both tradition and innovation. Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, and the wine is aged in French barriques, imparting elegance and complexity.
Zisola’s wines aren’t just about drinking—they’re about connecting with a place that has nourished its people for centuries. The Noto Rosso embodies the harmony between the land and the lifestyle, bringing you a wine that’s as rich in flavor as it is in heritage. Sicily’s volcanic soils, Mediterranean climate, and the Mazzei family’s centuries-old expertise have created a wine that’s bold, elegant, and unforgettable.
Indulge in the taste of longevity. Your journey to Sicily starts here.
2020 was a great year for Sicily. Vinous Media awarded this vintage with a 92pt review, and said: "Expect elegant wines with vivid fruit profiles, but also a balance of sweet tannins and elevated acidities that promise a steady and long evolution."
Aging: 10 months in small french oak barrels (225 lt, 33% new)
Tasting Notes
100% Nero d'Avola.
Critical Reviews
Lots of flowers and fresh herbs, such as sage and Sicilian rosemary, to the plummy fruit, following through to a medium body with round tannins and a savory finish that’s soft and flavorful. Drink now. ~92 James Suckling
Bright ruby red with a slightly brightening rim. On the nose shows notes of ripe wild berries, cherries, with orange zest and a hint of fine savouriness in the echo. On the palate juicy and fruity, unwinds with tension, the tannins are well-integrated, long, grippy finish. ~91 Falstaff
Inviting aromas of red berries, capers, thyme, red blossoms and hints of incense and spices. Very fresh and long on the palate. ~90 Decanter
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At A Glance
- Region:
- Sicily
- Size:
- 750ml
TASTING NOTES
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2020 Mazzei Zisola Noto Rosso Sicily