Between the late nineteenth and early twentieth century, Perricone was one of the most widespread and exclusive varieties of the sicilian island, especially in the territory between Palermo and Trapani. Its decline began with the phylloxeric invasion which destroyed its cultivation; it was also known with the synonyms of pignatello (in the Trapani area) and tuccarino.
Between the late nineteenth and early twentieth century, Perricone was one of the most widespread and exclusive varieties of the sicilian island, especially in the territory between Palermo and Trapani. Its decline began with the phylloxeric invasion which destroyed its cultivation; it was also known with the synonyms of pignatello (in the Trapani area) and tuccarino.
In Sicily they restarted to cultivate this indigenous grape in recent times, but in the meantime other black grapes more profitable and resistant to cryptogamic agents had spreaded themselves around the island. After years in which the reappearance of the Perricone on the Sicilian territory was desired by many, also linked to the morphological characteristics that well adapt it to the soil of the island, but without too many convictions in practice, there is a recent reversal of trend and a happy rediscovery of the variety, which has been replanted by many and currently provides several excellent labels.
Today it is quite cultivated especially in the western area of the island – also because it is a recommended variety only in the provinces of Palermo, Trapani and Agrigento – especially in the area of Trapani. It contributes, sometimes with low percentages, to the composition of many Sicilian Denominations and is contemplated as a pure typology in the Doc Sicily.
Today it is increasingly common to find the Perricone vinified in purity, while the custom of using it in association with other black and white varieties remains. The wine that is generally obtained has intense vinous, fruity and spicy aromas, followed by a savory, warm and well-balanced taste, supported by a decisive tannic note that can draw an excellent personality but also, if not well managed, overly dry and astringent final sensations.
Perricone bunch is of medium size, long and sometimes very long (up to 33 centimeters), cylindrical-conical or conical-pyramidal, of medium compactness. The grape is large or medium-large, spherical, with a thick, pruinose, black-blue skin. When it reaches maturity, usually around mid-September, the grapes have a good sugar level and low acidity.
Fondo Antico, Rilievo (TP)
Giuseppe Polizzotti is the owner of this company and the custodian of a family tradition that goes back two generations: its vineyards are located in the countryside between Paceco and Fulgatore, inland from the winery. Intense notes of red fruit and a strong component of herbal tea characterize Per Te 2017 (10,000 bottles), which is well expressed also served at a white temperature.
