Nero di Lupo
Azienda Agricola COS · Sicily, Italy
At a glance
- Producer
- Azienda Agricola COS
- Region
- Sicily, Italy
- Grape variety
- Nero d'Avola
- Wine type
- Red
- Body
- Full-bodied and Smooth
- Sweetness
- Dry
- Typical price
- $35-$45
Tasting profile
Red cherry and plum fruit dominant with hints of Mediterranean herbs, earthiness, and moderate oak aging influence
Evolution: Fruit will integrate more with tertiary notes of leather, tobacco, and spice developing by peak age
At peak: Soft, elegant tannins fully integrated with layered complexity and long finish
Structure
- Acidity
- Medium to Medium-High, bright
- Tannins
- Medium to Medium-High, velvety
- Alcohol
- 13.5%-14.5%
- Aging potential
- 8-12 years depending on vintage conditions
Drinking window
- Peak drinking
- 2026 to 2030
- Optimal window
- 2024 to 2031
- Current status
- Young but approachable
- Current condition
- Fruity tannins and fresh acidity with the primary fruit aromas still vibrant
Nero d'Avola from COS is a well-structured Sicilian red with ripe tannins and Acidity providing good framework for cellaring. The 2021 vintage exhibits balance and concentration, justifying a drinking window that opens in 3 years to allow development and lasts around a decade.
Food pairing
Pairs well with roasted lamb, grilled game, aged cheeses, tomato-based pasta dishes, and smoky Mediterranean grilled vegetables.
Serving
- Serving temperature
- 16-18°C / 61-64°F
- Decant
- Yes (30-60 minutes) — To allow oxygenation which softens tannins and enhances aromatics
Sustainability
Sustainability score: 9/10
COS employs biodynamic farming, renewable energy use, minimal intervention winemaking, and eco-friendly packaging materials including lightweight bottles and recycled labels.
Azienda Agricola COS is recognized as a pioneer in sustainable and biodynamic viticulture in Sicily. Their practices reduce chemical inputs, enhance soil biology, conserve water and energy, and minimize waste. This contributes to a high sustainability score.