Epicuro Nero D’Avola Review | Sicily’s Answer to Malbec?

When looking for a bottle of wine, do you seek out something that’s rich in dark fruit yet has soft tannins and a smooth mouthfeel? If so then you’re probably a fan of Argentinian Malbec, but have you tried Nero D’Avola?

Otherwise known as “The Black Grape of Avola” (a small town in Southeast Sicily), it’s quite similar in style to an Argentinian Malbec and just so happens to be Sicily’s most popular and widely planted grape.

Plus, many fine examples can be found under $12. But just how good can Nero D’Avola be at half that price? Today I’m investigating a possible find in the Trader Joe’s Wine Section: The $6 Epicuro Nero D’Avola 2013.

Appearance: A vivid, slightly translucent medium-ruby

Nose: There are muted aromas of black cherry, kirsch, licorice and oak.

On the palate: The Epicuro Nero D’Avola is immediately satisfying with a soft, medium to full-body defined by a creamy texture and plenty of ripe dark fruit. The blackberries, black cherries and plums are enveloped by a soft spice and smoke. It finishes dry with good persistence and just a tad too much oak, though not at all overwhelming.

Varietal Composition: Nero D’Avola

Vintage: 2013

Origin: Sicily, Italy

Value Rating:  4.75 / 5

Where I got it: Trader Joe’s (Clarendon, VA)

Price: $5.99

Score: 86

Should you buy? The Epicuro Nero D’Avola is an exceptional value in the Trader Joe’s Wine Section and a great alternative to the usual Malbec. This is almost too easy to drink!

Value Proposition – Epicuro Nero D’Avola 2013 | Trader Joe’s Wine

The Epicuro Nero D’Avola is yet another fine Italian gem in the Trader Joe’s Wine section. Frankly It’s surprising to me that wines like this exist for only $6, and it would make a phenomenal table wine or a commendable party pour.

I have read that quality of Sicilian Nero D’Avola has been steadfastly on the rise, and even that it’s overall quality is arguably the most improved of all Italian wines recently. If this is what a mere $6 gets you from Siciliy, then I’d certainly intrigued and look forward to trying more Nero D’Avola. Until then, the Epicuro Nero D’Avola is a welcome reprieve from the endless sea of Argentinian Malbec!