Velvet Blue (Velluto Blu)
Velluto Blu 2023 is a bold and elegant Syrah from the hills of Salemi in Western Sicily, a region long celebrated for its exceptional wine-growing conditions. Crafted with organic care and aged partially in oak, this deep, structured red delivers both power and softness—making it a versatile companion to a wide range of dishes. With aging potential of up to 10 years, it’s a wine that rewards both now and later.
Tasting tones
Velluto Blu opens with an intense aroma characteristic of Syrah—rich with dark berries, spice, and earthy undertones. On the palate, it offers power and structure while maintaining a smooth, velvety texture. It pairs effortlessly with robust Sicilian dishes, grilled meats, baked anelletti with eggplant, pork sausages, and aged cheeses. Its surprising adaptability also makes it an excellent companion to Mediterranean seafood like Mazara red prawns, tuna, and swordfish.
Vineyard
Sourced from the hills of Salemi at 450 meters above sea level, the vines are cultivated organically with no chemical inputs and managed using Guyot pruning. The vineyard features 5,000 vines per hectare with a yield of 70 quintals per hectare, nurtured by drip irrigation for precise water management.
Winemaker’s notes
Cryomaceration begins the process in the absence of alcohol, followed by maceration during alcoholic fermentation using closed and air pumping for optimal oxygenation. Delestage is performed at two-thirds fermentation. Full malolactic fermentation is completed. Post-fermentation, 10% of the wine ages in 200-liter oak barriques for 12 months, while the rest remains in steel or cement vats. The final blend is carefully assembled before bottling. Velluto Blu evolves beautifully with time and is best served at 18–20°C in a wide goblet, allowing it to breathe for 10 minutes before enjoying.