Spicy and hauntingly dark, the 2020 Nero d'Avola opens with a burst of blood orange, crushed blackberries, balsam herbs and violet florals. This is silky-smooth yet cool-toned in feel. Crisp wild berry fruits and zesty citrus tones add contrast. It leaves the palate reeling with youthful tension as a tart cherry and cranberry concentration mingles with sweet tannins. There is significantly more depth, concentration and balance here than expected.

An elegant, medium-bodied red, with fine tannins and bright acidity framing flavors of wild strawberry, ripe raspberry, anise hyssop and dried thyme, followed by a tar-tinged finish. Drink now through 2028. 25,000 cases made, 2,000 cases imported.

The Morgante 2020 Sicilia Nero d'Avola is a fun and versatile wine to pair with roast chicken with a side of fried potatoes. The wine has a very ripe side with black plum and blackberry confit. The tannins are soft and add volume to a medium to full-bodied mouthfeel. This is a big production of 150,000 bottles.

Cranberries, cherries and pomegranate come out on the nose, followed by freshly potted plants and a hint of nutmeg and clove. The savory palate emphasizes the notes of potting soil, flower petals and crunchy red fruit, with tannins that stay relentless through the finish.