The story of Cantine Ermes Società Cooperativa Agricola, which has now become a multi-regional reality, began in Sicily, in the Belìce Valley, in July 1998. Between Santa Ninfa and Gibellina, villages that had been severely affected by the 1968 earthquake, nine courageous winegrowers decided to join forces and share a dream: an innovative, dynamic, world-oriented winery. Today, 23 years after it was founded, Cantine Ermes has 2,513 members and 33,720 acres of vineyards. They are located in three Italian regions of great importance, Sicily, Puglia and Veneto. These wine growers believe in the skills, experience, and sense of responsibility of Cantine Ermes and who, over time, have chosen to be part of this large cooperative.

The 2021 Quattro Quarti is a Nero d'Avola from Sicily made in the Appassimento (drying out the grapes before pressing) style. Bright ruby with a purple hue in color, partially opaque. On the nose, the wine reveals juicy red fruit, fresh cherries, red plum, thyme, Mediterranean spices, and a hint of cocoa powder. Medium bodied with a silky texture and soft tannins. On the palate, the wine is straight forward in style and flavor with no hard edges. The flavor is persistent leading to an elegant finish, which is slightly on the drier side. This wine is very easy and pleasant to drink in its youth. The Quattro Quarti Nero d’Avola is excellent and represents a value from Sicily and would pair deliciously with Pasta alla Bolognese.

By Perry Miroballi