Variety: Moscato

Giusto Occhipinti of COS is one of the most critical names in Italy. COS was founded by three friends to make traditional wine with respect for the place the grapes are grown. During their first harvest in 1980, they were the youngest wine producers in Italy. The acronym of their three last names forms “COS.” They were early adopters to Biodynamic farming, starting a movement on the island, which are still golden standards. The friends are hard workers, using an old winery given to them by a family friend and opting to use terracotta vases for ageing, a completely neutral vessel. Sicily has just one DOCG—Cerasuolo di Vittoria; the friends were the first winery to bottle a DOCG wine in Sicily. COS is located in Vittoria, the farthest tip of southeastern Sicily. The area recalls that of Africa, with its climate and land of red, ochre, and yellow tones.

This is a very special bottle that will defy what you think you know about Moscato. A loose translation of "Aesta Sicilae" seems to be a "Sicilian summer." In the Vittoria appellation on the southeastern coast of Sicily are high altitude vines where this Moscato is harvested late. It is fermented on the skins for added structure, and aged in stainless steel to preserve its fresh fruity character, rich texture, and saline-forward minerality. Yes, there is sweetness, but it is balanced in its non-fruit tones and a driving acidity. This bottle can age well for years and pairs excellently with cheeses or fruit desserts.