Donna Fugata is one of the best Sicilian producers and Anthilia is their blend of 50% Cataratto and 50% Ansonica (also called Inzolia). The name Donnafugata, literally “woman in flight,” refers to the history of the Habsburg queen Maria Carolina who was the consort of Ferdinand IV of Bourbon.  In the initial years of the 19th century,she fled Naplesand found refuge a few miles from the estate’s vineyards.  The history inspired the effigy of the head of a woman with her hair tossed by the wind that dominates the label of every bottle of Donnafugata. Anthilia is the name given during the Roman period to the city of Entella. This wine has a distict personality. It is a perfect combination of Sicilian flavors: it is dry and robust and yet complex and rich. On the nose the wine shows notes of plums, apricots, citrus and yellow flowers. On the palate this 2006 Anthilia is spicy, salty, round and very mineral. The finish is very intense and persistent. I would pair this Cataratto/Ansonica blend with savory fish dishes, shellfish and roasted vegetables. Anthilia is very Sicilian and it pairs well with food that matches its rich and austere personality. Excellent value. Retail price is $14.

Production Area: Sicily, ITALY

Evolution: Ready