A Forgotten Sicilian Grape, Revived at Regaleali

A Forgotten Sicilian Grape, Revived at Regaleali

Sicily has always been a crossroads of culture, and its wines reflect that same sense of history and individuality. Among the island’s treasure trove of native grapes, Perricone remains one of the most distinctive. Once widespread in Sicily, it nearly disappeared in the mid-20th century, only to be rediscovered by estates dedicated to preserving the island’s heritage. At Tenuta Regaleali, part of the legendary Tasca d’Almerita family of estates, Perricone has found a home where tradition and innovation work hand in hand.

The Regaleali estate itself is one of Sicily’s great landmarks. Purchased by the Tasca family in 1830, it has remained in their care for nearly two centuries. Set in the rolling hills of central Sicily, far from the coast, Regaleali benefits from a unique climate: hot Sicilian sun tempered by elevation and cool breezes. These conditions create wines that capture ripeness and Mediterranean warmth, but with a freshness and balance that might surprise anyone who assumes all Sicilian reds are heavy.

The 2021 Perricone is a striking expression of this balance. The grape itself has a naturally savory, spicy character, with red fruit flavors and a hint of wild herbs that make it both distinctive and versatile. At Regaleali, it gains an extra layer of polish: ripe yet restrained fruit, a lively core of acidity, and a texture that feels at once rustic and refined. It’s the kind of wine that can anchor a weeknight dinner and still hold its own at the most thoughtful table.

What makes this bottle so compelling is the way it ties together Sicily’s past and present. Perricone is a grape that tells the story of the island, and Regaleali is an estate that has been part of that story for generations. The result is a wine that feels deeply rooted, authentically Sicilian, and—most importantly—an absolute pleasure to drink.

93 Points, Vinous
The 2021 Perricone Guarnaccio is perfumed with a dusty blend of black cherries, licorice and sage. It washes across the palate like pure silk, displaying polished red and black fruits complicated by balsamic spices. Saline minerals saturate toward the close. This finishes long with black tea-like tannins that grip the senses as mint and cedar nuances slowly fade. The 2021 will require patience.

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