Giuseppe Cipolla Passofonduto Le Robbe Rosso 2021

Giuseppe Cipolla Passofonduto Le Robbe Rosso 2021

Giuseppe Cipolla
$38.00

Grape: Nero d'Avola
Vintage: 2021
Type: Red

This artisanal red wine comes from the Passofonduto estate, a low-intervention project managed by Giuseppe Cipolla in the central valleys of Sicily. The fruit is hand-harvested from small plots grown on complex clay and chalky limestone soils that restrict vine yields. Spontaneous fermentation relies on native vineyard wild yeasts in neutral concrete tanks, avoiding modern temperature styling or additives. It undergoes a natural aging process on its fine lees before bottling unfiltered without sulfur adjustments.

It displays a deep ruby color, opening with aromatics of wild pomegranate, sour cherry, and fresh Mediterranean scrubland. On the palate, the medium-bodied frame is juicy and structured, balancing crunchy berry fruit with a fine-grained tannin grip. Notes of ground pepper and woodsmoke add a savory depth across the fluid mouthfeel. A central beam of limestone acidity cuts right through the volume, keeping the palate refreshed. It finishes clean and dry, leaving a savory trace.

Giuseppe Cipolla is a natural winemaker in Sicily who produces wines under the label Passofonduto. Based on a family farm with a history of growing grains and fruits, Cipolla began focusing on winemaking in 2014, working with indigenous Sicilian grape varieties. His winery is located in the Platani Valley, near Agrigento and Caltanissetta. Cipolla's vineyards are situated on steep, terraced hillsides with mineral-rich, chalky soil that was once a source of salt and sulfur. This terroir gives his wines a profound minerality and distinct character. He farms his vineyards organically and uses traditional methods, including the alberello (bush vine) style. In the cellar, Cipolla uses natural fermentation with minimal intervention. His wines are aged in a combination of fiberglass, wood, and stainless steel.