View of the Vineyards at Feudo Maccari

THE STORY

Having won international acclaim for his highly sought-after Super-Tuscans Crognolo and Oreno, Dr. Antonio Moretti purchased a number of small properties in Sicily near the town of Noto, establishing the estate that is now Feudo Maccari, a remarkable assemblage of old vine plots of indigenous Nero d'Avola in a truly unique environment. The vineyards are located less than a mile from the sea, which provides cooling breezes that moderate the searing heat of southern Sicily. The complex array of predominantly volcanic soils. includes deposits of sand and acidity- preserving chalk, further adding to the intrigue of the region's terroir. The 'arborela' (literally 'tree-like') vines-trained high and head pruned to protect the bunches from the hot sun - range from 12 to 40+ years old giving wonderful complexity to this great value Nero d'Avola.   

The name Saia reflects something of the rich cultural history of Sicily, (where viticulture was first established by the Ancient Greeks around 750 BC) - it refers to the irrigation canals the Arabs built to collect and distribute preciously scarce rainwater. The wine is made from 100% Nero d'Avola grapes grown on a magical combination of south-facing volcanic and compact limestone soils 80 m above sea level. Fermentation is in stainless steel and enamel lined vats. Individual lots are vinified separately, blended first when the wine is placed in French oak barriques, and again after racking, then bottled with minimal intervention. The resulting wine combines classic cherry and plum flavours, chocolaty richness, earthiness, and delightfully fresh acidity. It is a superb accompaniment to outdoor-grilled meat and is eminently chillable.