<p>Learn Sicilian wine secrets and taste one of the rarest light bodied red wines called Frappato – a must try for Pinot lovers.</p>
<p>The wine in this video is from <a href="https://winefolly.com/club/" title="Learn more about Wine Folly Club">Wine Folly Club!</a></p>


Learn Sicilian wine secrets and taste one of the rarest light bodied red wines called Frappato – a must try for Pinot lovers.

The wine in this video is from [Wine Folly Club!](https://winefolly.com/club/ "Learn more about Wine Folly Club")

Sicily's Rarest Red is a Ringer for Pinot Noir

<p>Non-alcoholic (NA) wine is no longer just a niche product with a bad reputation. The quality and appeal of NA wine have soared thanks to advancements in de-alcoholization methods and a cultural shift driven by Millennials and Gen Z. In 2023 alone, the NA beverage market grew by an astonishing 29%. Whether you’re a curious wine lover or a seasoned enthusiast, it’s time to <a href="https://winefolly.com/tips/non-alcoholic-wine/">give NA wines a second look</a>.</p>
<p>In this video, Christine Marsiglio MW explores the history, types, health benefits, and production methods of NA wine, plus how to find the best versions on the market.</p>
<h2 id="a-brief-history-of-non-alcoholic-wine">A Brief History of Non-Alcoholic Wine</h2>
<p>Let’s start with a bit of context. NA wine has been around for decades, but its early iterations often fell flat—literally and figuratively. The primary issue was the lack of sophistication in production methods, resulting in beverages that tasted more like watered-down grape juice than actual wine.</p>
<p>Fast forward to today, and innovations in dealcoholization have completely changed the game. From <a href="https://winefolly.com/tips/the-spectrum-of-boldness-in-red-wines-chart/">reds</a> to sparkling rosés, NA wines now offer nuanced flavors and aromas that closely mimic their alcoholic counterparts.</p>
<h2 id="types-of-non-alcoholic-wine">Types of Non-Alcoholic Wine</h2>
<p>The world of NA wine is as diverse as regular wine, encompassing various styles and alcohol levels.</p>
<p><strong>No &amp; Low Category:</strong> NA wines can range from 0.0% ABV to 0.5% ABV, with the latter still considered non-alcoholic by many standards.</p>
<p><strong>Styles Available:</strong> Expect to find reds, whites, rosés, <a href="https://winefolly.com/tips/sparkling-wine-explained-dry-to-sweet/">sparkling wines</a>, and even dessert options. Some are made specifically as NA wines, while others are dealcoholized versions of traditional wine.</p>
<p>When shopping, look for clarity in labeling. True 0.0% wines are completely free of alcohol, while 0.5% ABV wines may still retain trace amounts.</p>
<h2 id="health-benefits-of-na-wine">Health Benefits of NA Wine</h2>
<p>One of the biggest draws of NA wine is its potential <a href="https://winefolly.com/lifestyle/is-wine-good-for-you-facts-vs-fiction/">health benefits</a>. Regular wine boasts polyphenols—compounds linked to improved heart health, cholesterol reduction, and even liver health. However, these benefits are often counterbalanced by the adverse effects of alcohol, which can lead to weight gain, liver damage, and increased cancer risk.</p>
<p>NA wine offers the same health-boosting polyphenols but without the alcohol. Here’s what that means for your well-being:</p>
<p><strong>Lower Calories</strong>: Alcohol contains 7 calories per gram. By removing alcohol, NA wines save 85-120 calories per serving compared to standard wines.</p>
<p><strong>Reduced Cancer Risk</strong>: Without ethanol, the risk of alcohol-related cancers drops significantly.</p>
<p><strong>Heart Health Benefits</strong>: Many NA red wines retain high levels of polyphenols, making them a great choice for heart-conscious consumers.</p>
<h2 id="how-na-wines-are-made">How NA Wines Are Made</h2>
<p>The production process can make or break an NA wine.</p>
<p><strong>Modern Methods</strong>: Techniques like vacuum distillation and reverse osmosis gently remove alcohol while preserving the wine’s original flavor profile. These methods have been a game-changer for quality. Spinning cone technology is the most sophisticated method, offering even more precision in separating alcohol from wine’s delicate aromatic compounds. </p>
<p><strong>Other Methods</strong>: Some NA wines are made by blending grape juice with other flavors. While this is less expensive, it often results in less complex wines.</p>
<p>When selecting an NA wine, look for brands that emphasize premium de-alcoholization techniques.</p>
<h2 id="tasting-non-alcoholic-wine">Tasting Non-Alcoholic Wine</h2>
<p>Tasting non-alcoholic wine requires a slight shift in perspective. It’s important to approach these beverages with an open mind, much like trying a plant-based alternative to a favorite dish. While non-alcoholic wines may not replicate every aspect of traditional wines, they bring their own unique appeal.</p>
<p>On the nose, non-alcoholic wines can retain many of the <a href="https://winefolly.com/tips/wine-aroma-wheel-100-flavors/">fresh, fruity aromas</a> found in their alcoholic counterparts. However, some wines may lose a bit of aromatic complexity during the de-alcoholization process. Despite this, high-quality examples often surprise with vibrant and enticing scents.</p>
<p>When it comes to taste, non-alcoholic wines tend to offer bright and refreshing flavors. While the absence of alcohol can reduce the wine’s <a href="https://winefolly.com/tips/what-is-wine-body-and-how-to-taste-it/">body and texture</a>, many producers compensate by emphasizing <a href="https://winefolly.com/deep-dive/understanding-acidity-in-wine/">crisp acidity</a> or fruit-forward profiles. A well-made non-alcoholic wine may not fully mimic the depth and weight of traditional wine, but it provides an enjoyable and satisfying experience on its own terms.</p>
<p>Ultimately, the key to enjoying non-alcoholic wine lies in adjusting expectations. Instead of comparing it directly to regular wine, it’s better to evaluate it as a unique and flavorful beverage. When approached this way, non-alcoholic wines can shine as delicious and versatile options for various occasions.</p>
<h2 id="finding-the-best-na-wines">Finding the Best NA Wines</h2>
<p>To discover top-quality NA wines, take these tips from experts:</p>
<p><strong>Focus on Styles</strong>: Sparkling wines and <a href="https://winefolly.com/deep-dive/what-are-aromatic-white-wines/">lighter, aromatic whites</a> tend to perform exceptionally well in the NA category.</p>
<p><strong>Seek Quality Producers</strong>: Countries like Germany and Australia are leading the charge in crafting high-quality NA wines.</p>
<p><strong>Check Labels</strong>: Look for wines made using advanced de-alcoholization methods.</p>
<h2 id="why-na-wines-matter">Why NA Wines Matter</h2>
<p>From Michelin-starred restaurants to casual dinner parties, NA wines are making their mark. They allow everyone to enjoy the sensory experience of wine—responsibly. Plus, they foster inclusivity, making non-drinkers feel welcome in social settings.</p>
<p>If you’re curious to learn more about the fascinating world of wine, explore courses like the <a href="https://shop.winefolly.com/collections/wine-courses/products/wine-101">Wine 101 Certificate</a> at WineFolly.com. Cheers to new discoveries!</p>


Master of Wine Tries Non-Alcoholic Wine

<p>Ever wondered how sommeliers seem to magically identify a wine’s <a href="https://winefolly.com/grapes/">grape variety</a>, <a href="https://winefolly.com/regions/">region</a>, and even its vintage? The secret isn’t magic; it’s a simple four-step method anyone can learn. You don’t need years of practice or a fancy wine cellar to start; you just need a curious palate and an open mind. Here’s how to taste wine like a pro — no snobbery required.</p>
<h2 id="step-1-look">Step 1: Look</h2>
<p>Wine tasting starts <a href="https://winefolly.com/tips/wine-color-chart/">with your eyes</a>. Hold your glass by the stem to avoid warming the wine, then tilt it over a white background. Examine the color at the edge, known as the meniscus. For red wines, is it purple, ruby, or garnet? For whites, is it pale straw, yellow, or gold? These hues provide clues about the wine’s age, grape variety, and even its growing region.</p>
<p>Swirl the glass and observe the “<a href="https://winefolly.com/tips/wine-legs/">legs</a>” or “tears” dripping down the side. This visual cue isn’t just pretty; it indicates the wine’s alcohol content, with slower, thicker legs pointing to higher levels. <a href="https://winefolly.com/tips/warm-climate-vs-cool-climate-wine/">Warmer climates</a> often produce wines with more alcohol, so this can hint at the wine’s origin.</p>
<h2 id="step-2-smell">Step 2: Smell</h2>
<p>Next, dive into the <a href="https://winefolly.com/tips/wine-aroma-wheel-100-flavors/">aromas</a>. Swirl the wine to release its scents, then bring the glass to your nose. Use the “small to large” method: start by identifying broad categories like fruit or spice, then narrow it down to specifics, such as blackberry or cinnamon.</p>
<p>Red wines like <a href="https://winefolly.com/grapes/pinot-noir/">Pinot Noir</a> often showcase red fruit notes like raspberry, while deeper wines like <a href="https://winefolly.com/grapes/syrah/">Syrah</a> lean toward blackberry and blueberry. Don’t stop at the fruit; look for floral notes, herbs, spices, or even earthy tones like mushroom or gravel. These layers reveal the wine’s complexity and origin.</p>
<h2 id="step-3-taste">Step 3: Taste</h2>
<p>Take a sip (about a teaspoon), swish it around, and breathe in gently through your mouth. This engages your retronasal senses, allowing you to “smell” the wine as you taste it.</p>
<p>Focus on four key traits:</p>
<p><strong>Sweetness:</strong> Is it <a href="https://winefolly.com/tips/wine-sweetness-chart/">bone-dry</a> or slightly sweet?</p>
<p><strong>Acidity:</strong> Does your <a href="https://winefolly.com/deep-dive/understanding-acidity-in-wine/">mouth water</a>? That’s good, it means the wine is balanced.</p>
<p><strong>Tannins:</strong> Feel the texture; is it <a href="https://winefolly.com/deep-dive/what-are-wine-tannins/">smooth or grippy</a>?</p>
<p><strong>Alcohol:</strong> A warming sensation at the back of your throat signals higher alcohol.</p>
<h2 id="step-4-think">Step 4: Think</h2>
<p>Now, assess. Is the wine balanced, with its sweetness, acidity, tannins, and alcohol in harmony? How long does the finish linger? A long, pleasant aftertaste often signals quality.</p>
<p>With these steps, you’ll uncover a world of detail in every sip. Wine tasting isn’t about being perfect; it’s about exploration. So grab a glass and start your journey!</p>


How To Taste Wine Like a Pro (Without The Snob)

<p>France has long been <em>THE</em> global influencer in the wine industry. From Bordeaux to Burgundy, its wines have shaped how we drink and think about wine today. In fact, of the top ten grape varieties planted worldwide, seven — Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, and Malbec — hail from France. Let’s explore the nine most famous French wines that continue to inspire winemakers globally and set the gold standard for excellence.</p>
<h2 id="the-classics-french-grapes-that-define-wine">The Classics: French Grapes That Define Wine</h2>
<h3 id="cabernet-sauvignon---bordeaux">Cabernet Sauvignon - Bordeaux</h3>
<p>Bordeaux’s <a href="https://bordeaux.guides.winefolly.com/regions/left-bank-medoc/">Left Bank</a> is the heartland of <a href="https://winefolly.com/grapes/cabernet-sauvignon/">Cabernet Sauvignon</a>, thanks to its <a href="https://winefolly.com/deep-dive/introduction-soil-types-wine/">gravelly soils</a>. A well-made Bordeaux Cabernet boasts aromas of blackcurrant, cherry, and subtle spices, with bold tannins perfect for aging. It’s a wine that epitomizes complexity and refinement, though quality often comes with a price tag.</p>
<h3 id="merlot---saint-émilion">Merlot - Saint-Émilion</h3>
<p><a href="https://winefolly.com/grapes/merlot/">Merlot</a> finds its pinnacle in Saint-Émilion, where clay-limestone soils create velvety wines with plum, blackberry, and chocolate notes. Softer and more approachable than Cabernet, Merlot is the crowd-pleaser of French reds.</p>
<h3 id="chardonnay---three-styles">Chardonnay - Three Styles</h3>
<p>French <a href="https://winefolly.com/grapes/chardonnay/">Chardonnay</a> showcases its versatility across three iconic regions.
<a href="https://winefolly.com/deep-dive/chablis-wine-guide/"><strong>Chablis</strong></a>: Crisp, mineral-driven wines from limestone-rich soils. Think green apple and lemon zest — pure and unoaked.
<a href="https://winefolly.com/deep-dive/white-burgundy-tasting-pairing-and-french-chardonnay/"><strong>Meursault</strong></a>: Rich and creamy, with oak-aged notes of vanilla and butter from Burgundy’s Côte de Beaune.
<a href="https://winefolly.com/deep-dive/wine-folly-handy-champagne-guide/"><strong>Champagne</strong></a>: The celebratory Blanc de Blancs style is sparkling Chardonnay at its finest.</p>
<h3 id="syrah---hermitage">Syrah - Hermitage</h3>
<p>Hermitage, nestled in the <a href="https://winefolly.com/deep-dive/northern-rhone-wine-french-syrah/">Northern Rhône Valley</a>, is the pinnacle of <a href="https://winefolly.com/grapes/syrah/">Syrah</a>’s expression. The region’s granite soils produce wines of remarkable intensity, showcasing flavors of blackberry, blueberry, and black pepper, with a hint of smokiness. These wines are built to age, boasting firm tannins and vibrant acidity. Due to Hermitage’s small size and prestige, bottles can be pricey, but neighboring appellations like Saint-Joseph offer excellent Syrah at a more accessible cost.</p>
<h3 id="sauvignon-blanc---sancerre">Sauvignon Blanc - Sancerre</h3>
<p>Sancerre highlights <a href="https://winefolly.com/grapes/sauvignon-blanc/">Sauvignon Blanc</a>’s vibrant, zesty side in the <a href="https://winefolly.com/deep-dive/loire-valley-wine-guide/">Loire Valley</a>. With flavors of grapefruit, peach, and fresh-cut grass, it’s a refreshing classic.</p>
<h3 id="pinot-noir---burgundy">Pinot Noir - Burgundy</h3>
<p><a href="https://winefolly.com/deep-dive/guide-to-burgundy-wine-with-maps/">Burgundy</a>’s Côte de Nuits is <a href="https://winefolly.com/grapes/pinot-noir/">Pinot Noir</a>’s masterpiece, offering wines of elegance and depth with cherry, raspberry, and earthy undertones.</p>
<h3 id="malbec---cahors">Malbec - Cahors</h3>
<p>Though now famous in Argentina, <a href="https://winefolly.com/grapes/malbec/">Malbec</a>’s roots are in Cahors. Expect intense blackberry and smoky-earthy flavors, perfect with hearty meals.</p>
<h2 id="the-new-world-connection">The New World Connection</h2>
<p>French grapes don’t just dominate in France; they’ve conquered the New World. Countries like the <a href="https://winefolly.com/regions/">U.S., Australia, and Argentina</a> have built their wine industries on these varieties, adapting French styles to their unique terroirs. From <a href="https://winefolly.com/deep-dive/understanding-napa-cabernet/">California Cabernet</a> to <a href="https://winefolly.com/tips/mendoza-malbec-vs-cahors-malbec/">Argentinian Malbec</a>, the influence is clear.</p>
<h2 id="a-paradigm-shift-in-wine">A Paradigm Shift in Wine</h2>
<p>While France’s influence is undeniable, a new wave is emerging. Winemakers worldwide are embracing lesser-known grapes like Portugal’s <a href="https://winefolly.com/grapes/touriga-nacional/">Touriga Nacional</a> and Italy’s <a href="https://winefolly.com/grapes/nero-davola/">Nero d’Avola</a>. It’s an exciting time to explore beyond the classics, though France remains the perfect starting point for understanding the world of wine.</p>


9 Most Famous French Wines

Vittoria

Frappato

A rare and exclusive grape variety cultivated on only a few hectares, it is best expressed in the red sands of Vittoria, not far from the sea. An aromatic and pleasant red wine as few others, a perfect synthesis between tradition and innovation.

'It is a new way of thinking about the journey through Sicily; after Menfi, Vittoria, then Noto, then Etna, then Milazzo. Not a random route, but one strongly linked to the variety of countryside, to the winds, to the character of the people and thus of their wine…’ Diego Planeta

Planeta’s story is one of courage and hard work, of innovation and tradition. 
The company and the family share their values, both with an eye to the future and with their feet firmly on the ground.
Courage and innovation since the 1990’s, due to several of that generation of the family then in their twenties led by Alessio Planeta and under the protective care of the founder Diego Planeta, who initiated a completely new project, placing wine in the centre of the family’s farming activities.

After establishing the first winery at Ulmo in 1994 the ‘Viaggio in Sicilia’ took off, in other words, the search for the best known areas of the island in order to create independent wineries and produce what would be considered the best wines in each area, working with indigenous vines while continuing to experiment with international varieties.  
These last were developed particularly at Menfi, the working centre of the company, where the number of vines and wineries always continued to increase.
The next stage of the journey took place at Vittoria in 1997, where the only Sicilian DOCG, Cerasuolo di Vittoria, then existed, initially with vineyards and followed up with the purchase of the Dorilli estate. Next Noto in 1998 with the acquisition of Buonivini and with the specific intention of achieving the excellence of Nero d’Avola within its region of origin. Then Etna with the acquisition of the first 12 hectares of land at Sciaranuova on the northern slopes of the volcano in 2008, and the gradual purchase of more land bringing the total area to 40 hectares, devoted to Nerello Mascalese and Carricante, with small trial areas of Pinot Noir and Riesling.

This wonderful journey has for the moment finished at Capo Milazzo, and the tiny winery of Baronia, where since 2011 the focus has been on the DOC Mamertino and various antique indigenous varieties, particularly Nocera.

All this began from that first venture at Ulmo, the estate acquired by the family through marriage in 1694, 17 generations ago, and since then always cultivated with vines and olives; an authentic family tradition.

Now exists their obligation; the values which have always directed the company are tradition, research, the work ethic and respect for the land; to contribute to the progress of the community where they operate; to safeguard the beauty and environmental integrity of those places.  This last element is particularly loaded with meaning due to the particular beauty of the areas where the vineyards and wineries are sited.  Ulmo, Dispensa, Dorilli, Buonivini, Sciaranuova and La Baronia are unforgettable places, emphasising the saying that good wines are made in beautiful places.
Today there are overall 395 hectares and 7 wineries in five different areas.  Each winery has its leading wine-maker, each one is wholly part of its territory on which it is  modelled.

Four of the five wineries produce exclusively grapes and wines certified as organic;
Planeta has subscribed to SOStain’s protocol of sustainability since its inception, a further guarantee of their attention to the environment and to the land.  It is sufficient to visit any one of the wineries to understand to what extent the environment, the countryside and the culture are fundamental values of the company.
 


Planeta is not solely concerned with wine.  In the flora and fauna oasis of Capparrina (Menfi), owned by the family since the 19th century, 148 hectares of olive grove have been planted since 1998.  The olives – Nocellara del Belice, Biancolilla and Cerasuola – are processed as soon as harvested at the olive press in the centre of the estate; the result is an IGP extra-virgin olive oil which has been awarded various national and international awards.

Finally Planeta has devoted increasing investment and resources, under the guidance of Francesca Planeta, to the development of property activities and particularly to high-profile hospitality.  This began with La Foresteria, the Menfi wine resort established in 2009 and inscribed in the Ecoluxury list, to be followed with Palazzo Planeta in Palermo and Le Case Sparse at Noto.
In addition three of the estates – Ulmo, Buonivini and Sciaranuova – have in their turn become centres of hospitality linked to wine tourism (tastings, events, experiences, wine sales) and fully represent the synthesis of Planeta’s activities and their vision.


Sicily's Rarest Red is a Ringer for Pinot Noir

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