Had been getting used to having to spend at least $12 for a ‘daily’ bottle, but recently found one at half that price that is drinkable. Available at Trader Joe’s only (that I’ve seen) it is:
Feudo Zirtari, 2003, Indicazione Geografica Tipica Rosso, from Sicilia Italy. The trademark symbol on the label is a red triangle laying on its side, which is where I generally wind up after drinking a bottle.
I’d like to say it is great, but it’s not – but what it IS, is a very dry, very drinkable red with a fairly strong black cherry flavor, both on the nose and the tounge, for a very reasonable price.
I’m working on the second case, and will buy a third this week, if that tells you anything. It is really worth a try if you are near a Trader Joe’s and looking for a red that won’t offend you. If you like black cherry, you might just say it is worth 3 times its selling price.
John Friederich
LV, NV
I agree that this is quite the find for about $6.
At first I found it a bit harsh, but realized that I needed to eat some pasta with a red sauce for it to show well. I tried it with some gorgonzola tortellini with a three-cheese tomato sauce. (I bought these at Trader Joe’s also…) It was a good combination. I think that the wine would be awesome with Osso Buco.
I had half a bottle left over and the next day, the wine is great all by itself. The color is a nice dark purple – about what you’d expect from an inexpensive Australian Shiraz. I assume the color comes from the Syrah in the blend. The aromas are black cherry, blackberry and a touch of coffee. The flavors include blackberry, and a touch of cedar. The tannins are nice. But could become overwhelming on the finish if you serve it too warm.
Their web site is http://www.feudozirtari.com/eng/rosso.htm