Mandrarossa Viognier 2025
£11.95
The wine
Viognier is a Rhône variety, nearly extinct by the 1960s when only a few dozen hectares survived at Condrieu, and now planted widely in warm climates where it can ripen fully.
It needs real ripeness to develop its apricot and blossom character, but picked a week too late it loses all its acidity, so the timing is unforgiving. Sicily gives it the warmth it wants and the coastal sites around Menfi supply the freshness it needs. Crushed, destemmed and chilled quickly, then fermented cool in stainless steel with no oak.
The producer
Mandrarossa
View all Mandrarossa winesMandrarossa is the premium expression of Cantine Settesoli, one of Sicily's largest and most quality-focused growers, based in Menfi on the island's sun-drenched south-western coast. It has become a byword for characterful, well-made Sicilian wine that captures the warmth and vibrancy of its home.
Drawing on a remarkable diversity of vineyards near the Mediterranean, Mandrarossa champions both indigenous Sicilian varieties and international grapes. Cooling sea breezes and a long growing season give wines of ripe fruit balanced by welcome freshness, with sustainability a guiding principle across the estate.
The range is wonderfully broad, from crisp whites of Fiano, Grillo and Grecanico to aromatic Zibibbo, juicy Nero d'Avola and Frappato, and premium bottlings such as the old-vine Cartagho and single-terroir Terre di Sommacco. The golden Serapias passito from Pantelleria is a jewel to finish.
Vivid, generous and full of Sicilian sunshine, Mandrarossa offers exceptional character and value. Its wines are an inviting journey through one of the Mediterranean's most exciting wine islands.
