<p>Learn Sicilian wine secrets and taste one of the rarest light bodied red wines called Frappato – a must try for Pinot lovers.</p>
<p>The wine in this video is from <a href="https://winefolly.com/club/" title="Learn more about Wine Folly Club">Wine Folly Club!</a></p>


Learn Sicilian wine secrets and taste one of the rarest light bodied red wines called Frappato – a must try for Pinot lovers.

The wine in this video is from [Wine Folly Club!](https://winefolly.com/club/ "Learn more about Wine Folly Club")

Sicily's Rarest Red is a Ringer for Pinot Noir

<p>Hungary has a way of making you rethink everything you think you know about wine. Positioned at the crossroads of Europe, this country boasts a rich <a href="https://hungary.guides.winefolly.com/history/">winemaking heritage</a> that dates back over a thousand years. From the sunlit hills of Tokaj, famed for its golden Aszú wines, to the bold and spicy reds of Eger, Hungary offers a spectrum of flavors that demand attention.</p>
<p>Love crisp whites, earthy reds, or luscious dessert wines? Hungary’s <a href="https://hungary.guides.winefolly.com/wines/">native grapes</a>, like Furmint and Kadarka, deliver something fresh and unexpected for every palate. With <a href="https://hungary.guides.winefolly.com/terroir/">volcanic soils</a>, diverse microclimates, and a proud tradition of craftsmanship, Hungarian wines stand out as a vibrant expression of place and history.</p>
<p>Intrigued? Dive into our <a href="https://hungary.guides.winefolly.com">Hungary Region Guide</a> to uncover fascinating wine facts and explore iconic styles. </p>


Guide to Hungarian Wine

<p>Ever find yourself reaching for the same bottle of wine? You&#39;re not alone. While <a href="https://winefolly.com/grapes/cabernet-sauvignon/">Cabernet Sauvignon</a> and <a href="https://winefolly.com/grapes/chardonnay/">Chardonnay</a> dominate wine shelves, some seriously amazing wines are waiting to rock your world. Here are 10 exceptional wines that deliver serious bang for your buck.</p>
<h2 id="nero-davola-sicilys-bold-red">Nero d&#39;Avola: Sicily&#39;s Bold Red</h2>
<p>This <a href="https://winefolly.com/grapes/nero-davola/">powerhouse red</a> from <a href="https://sicily.guides.winefolly.com">Sicily</a> offers the boldness of Cabernet Sauvignon with a bit of Mediterranean swagger. Despite being one of Italy&#39;s top 10 grapes, it remained overlooked while Sicily focused on Marsala production. This sun-loving grape pumps out gorgeous cherry, black plum, and tobacco notes with polished tannins. The best part? You can snag amazing bottles for under $20.</p>
<h2 id="touriga-nacional-portugals-hidden-strength">Touriga Nacional: Portugal&#39;s Hidden Strength</h2>
<p><a href="https://winefolly.com/deep-dive/what-is-port-wine/">Port</a>&#39;s secret weapon has gone solo; <a href="https://winefolly.com/grapes/touriga-nacional/">Touriga Nacional</a> is an inky, powerful red grape that produces dry wines with intense blueberry, violet, and plum flavors. Its concentrated character and aging potential rival many prestigious wines at a fraction of the price.</p>
<h2 id="carignan-frances-comeback-kid">Carignan: France&#39;s Comeback Kid</h2>
<p>Once the most planted grape in France, <a href="https://winefolly.com/grapes/carignan/">Carignan</a> fell from grace due to bulk wine production. However, <a href="https://winefolly.com/deep-dive/why-old-vine-wines-are-so-special/">old-vine examples</a> showcase incredible complexity with flavors of black cherry, tobacco leaf, and baking spices backed by mouthwatering acidity. Perfect for BBQ lovers who dig bold reds.</p>
<h2 id="montepulciano-italys-misunderstood-red">Montepulciano: Italy&#39;s Misunderstood Red</h2>
<p>Not to be confused with Tuscany&#39;s <a href="https://winefolly.com/deep-dive/italian-red-wines/">Vino Nobile di Montepulciano</a>, this <a href="https://winefolly.com/grapes/montepulciano/">crowd-pleasing grape</a> from Abruzzo delivers rich black plum, boysenberry, and sweet spice notes. When properly produced, it offers the kind of depth usually associated with much pricier wines; it&#39;s one of Italy&#39;s best-kept secrets.</p>
<h2 id="cinsault-the-mediterraneans-elegant-red">Cinsault: The Mediterranean&#39;s Elegant Red</h2>
<p>Meet Pinot Noir&#39;s Mediterranean cousin. <a href="https://winefolly.com/deep-dive/light-red-wine/">Light, bright</a>, and seriously food-friendly, <a href="https://winefolly.com/grapes/cinsault/">this red</a> brings strawberry-perfumed elegance without the Pinot price tag. Look for bottles from old vines in Southern France or <a href="https://winefolly.com/wine-regions/south-africa/">South Africa</a>.</p>
<h2 id="pinotage-south-africas-unique-expression">Pinotage: South Africa&#39;s Unique Expression</h2>
<p>South Africa&#39;s <a href="https://winefolly.com/grapes/pinotage/">signature grape</a> has grown up. Forget what you heard in the past - modern Pinotage (a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault) is all about rich blackberry, dark chocolate, and subtle smoke. Some serious winemaking has transformed this underdog into a world-class performer boasting complexity and character.</p>
<h2 id="chenin-blanc-loires-versatile-white">Chenin Blanc: Loire&#39;s Versatile White</h2>
<p>Often typecast as just a sweet wine grape, <a href="https://winefolly.com/grapes/chenin-blanc/">Loire Valley&#39;s chameleon</a> can do it all - <a href="https://winefolly.com/tips/4-tips-on-finding-awesome-sparkling-wine/">sparkling</a>, <a href="https://winefolly.com/tips/wine-sweetness-chart/">sweet</a>, and killer dry whites. Honey, quince, and zippy acidity make Chenin Blanc the wine insider&#39;s white of choice. Its <a href="https://winefolly.com/tips/white-wine-aging-chart-best-practices/">aging potential</a> and complexity rival fine <a href="https://winefolly.com/deep-dive/white-burgundy-tasting-pairing-and-french-chardonnay/">white Burgundy</a>.</p>
<h2 id="vermentino-italys-coastal-beauty">Vermentino: Italy&#39;s Coastal Beauty</h2>
<p>This <a href="https://winefolly.com/grapes/vermentino/">Mediterranean white</a> offers all the zesty appeal of Sauvignon Blanc plus distinctive minerality and texture. Coastal examples show bright citrus flavors with a characteristic salty finish that screams for seafood.</p>
<h2 id="albariño-spains-atlantic-gem">Albariño: Spain&#39;s Atlantic Gem</h2>
<p>Recently gaining international attention, this <a href="https://winefolly.com/grapes/albarino/">Spanish white</a> delivers bright fruit flavors and distinctive minerality. Its combination of refreshing acidity and surprising depth makes it a worthy alternative to <a href="https://winefolly.com/grapes/pinot-gris/">Pinot Grigio</a>.</p>
<h2 id="marsanne-roussanne-rhônes-dynamic-duo">Marsanne-Roussanne: Rhône&#39;s Dynamic Duo</h2>
<p>These traditional white <a href="https://winefolly.com/deep-dive/cotes-du-rhone-wine-with-maps/">Rhône varieties</a> create age-worthy wines with remarkable complexity. Together, they offer rich texture and elegant aromatics that develop fascinating nutty and quince notes with age.</p>
<p>Here&#39;s the truth bomb: following the crowd means missing out on some of wine&#39;s best-kept secrets. These alternatives aren&#39;t just cheaper - they&#39;re unique, delicious wines with stories to tell. Ready to break out of your wine rut? Grab one of these bottles and prepare to impress both your palate and your wallet.</p>


10 Wines You Oughta Try in 2025

<p>Non-alcoholic (NA) wine is no longer just a niche product with a bad reputation. The quality and appeal of NA wine have soared thanks to advancements in de-alcoholization methods and a cultural shift driven by Millennials and Gen Z. In 2023 alone, the NA beverage market grew by an astonishing 29%. Whether you’re a curious wine lover or a seasoned enthusiast, it’s time to <a href="https://winefolly.com/tips/non-alcoholic-wine/">give NA wines a second look</a>.</p>
<p>In this video, Christine Marsiglio MW explores the history, types, health benefits, and production methods of NA wine, plus how to find the best versions on the market.</p>
<h2 id="a-brief-history-of-non-alcoholic-wine">A Brief History of Non-Alcoholic Wine</h2>
<p>Let’s start with a bit of context. NA wine has been around for decades, but its early iterations often fell flat—literally and figuratively. The primary issue was the lack of sophistication in production methods, resulting in beverages that tasted more like watered-down grape juice than actual wine.</p>
<p>Fast forward to today, and innovations in dealcoholization have completely changed the game. From <a href="https://winefolly.com/tips/the-spectrum-of-boldness-in-red-wines-chart/">reds</a> to sparkling rosés, NA wines now offer nuanced flavors and aromas that closely mimic their alcoholic counterparts.</p>
<h2 id="types-of-non-alcoholic-wine">Types of Non-Alcoholic Wine</h2>
<p>The world of NA wine is as diverse as regular wine, encompassing various styles and alcohol levels.</p>
<p><strong>No &amp; Low Category:</strong> NA wines can range from 0.0% ABV to 0.5% ABV, with the latter still considered non-alcoholic by many standards.</p>
<p><strong>Styles Available:</strong> Expect to find reds, whites, rosés, <a href="https://winefolly.com/tips/sparkling-wine-explained-dry-to-sweet/">sparkling wines</a>, and even dessert options. Some are made specifically as NA wines, while others are dealcoholized versions of traditional wine.</p>
<p>When shopping, look for clarity in labeling. True 0.0% wines are completely free of alcohol, while 0.5% ABV wines may still retain trace amounts.</p>
<h2 id="health-benefits-of-na-wine">Health Benefits of NA Wine</h2>
<p>One of the biggest draws of NA wine is its potential <a href="https://winefolly.com/lifestyle/is-wine-good-for-you-facts-vs-fiction/">health benefits</a>. Regular wine boasts polyphenols—compounds linked to improved heart health, cholesterol reduction, and even liver health. However, these benefits are often counterbalanced by the adverse effects of alcohol, which can lead to weight gain, liver damage, and increased cancer risk.</p>
<p>NA wine offers the same health-boosting polyphenols but without the alcohol. Here’s what that means for your well-being:</p>
<p><strong>Lower Calories</strong>: Alcohol contains 7 calories per gram. By removing alcohol, NA wines save 85-120 calories per serving compared to standard wines.</p>
<p><strong>Reduced Cancer Risk</strong>: Without ethanol, the risk of alcohol-related cancers drops significantly.</p>
<p><strong>Heart Health Benefits</strong>: Many NA red wines retain high levels of polyphenols, making them a great choice for heart-conscious consumers.</p>
<h2 id="how-na-wines-are-made">How NA Wines Are Made</h2>
<p>The production process can make or break an NA wine.</p>
<p><strong>Modern Methods</strong>: Techniques like vacuum distillation and reverse osmosis gently remove alcohol while preserving the wine’s original flavor profile. These methods have been a game-changer for quality. Spinning cone technology is the most sophisticated method, offering even more precision in separating alcohol from wine’s delicate aromatic compounds. </p>
<p><strong>Other Methods</strong>: Some NA wines are made by blending grape juice with other flavors. While this is less expensive, it often results in less complex wines.</p>
<p>When selecting an NA wine, look for brands that emphasize premium de-alcoholization techniques.</p>
<h2 id="tasting-non-alcoholic-wine">Tasting Non-Alcoholic Wine</h2>
<p>Tasting non-alcoholic wine requires a slight shift in perspective. It’s important to approach these beverages with an open mind, much like trying a plant-based alternative to a favorite dish. While non-alcoholic wines may not replicate every aspect of traditional wines, they bring their own unique appeal.</p>
<p>On the nose, non-alcoholic wines can retain many of the <a href="https://winefolly.com/tips/wine-aroma-wheel-100-flavors/">fresh, fruity aromas</a> found in their alcoholic counterparts. However, some wines may lose a bit of aromatic complexity during the de-alcoholization process. Despite this, high-quality examples often surprise with vibrant and enticing scents.</p>
<p>When it comes to taste, non-alcoholic wines tend to offer bright and refreshing flavors. While the absence of alcohol can reduce the wine’s <a href="https://winefolly.com/tips/what-is-wine-body-and-how-to-taste-it/">body and texture</a>, many producers compensate by emphasizing <a href="https://winefolly.com/deep-dive/understanding-acidity-in-wine/">crisp acidity</a> or fruit-forward profiles. A well-made non-alcoholic wine may not fully mimic the depth and weight of traditional wine, but it provides an enjoyable and satisfying experience on its own terms.</p>
<p>Ultimately, the key to enjoying non-alcoholic wine lies in adjusting expectations. Instead of comparing it directly to regular wine, it’s better to evaluate it as a unique and flavorful beverage. When approached this way, non-alcoholic wines can shine as delicious and versatile options for various occasions.</p>
<h2 id="finding-the-best-na-wines">Finding the Best NA Wines</h2>
<p>To discover top-quality NA wines, take these tips from experts:</p>
<p><strong>Focus on Styles</strong>: Sparkling wines and <a href="https://winefolly.com/deep-dive/what-are-aromatic-white-wines/">lighter, aromatic whites</a> tend to perform exceptionally well in the NA category.</p>
<p><strong>Seek Quality Producers</strong>: Countries like Germany and Australia are leading the charge in crafting high-quality NA wines.</p>
<p><strong>Check Labels</strong>: Look for wines made using advanced de-alcoholization methods.</p>
<h2 id="why-na-wines-matter">Why NA Wines Matter</h2>
<p>From Michelin-starred restaurants to casual dinner parties, NA wines are making their mark. They allow everyone to enjoy the sensory experience of wine—responsibly. Plus, they foster inclusivity, making non-drinkers feel welcome in social settings.</p>
<p>If you’re curious to learn more about the fascinating world of wine, explore courses like the <a href="https://shop.winefolly.com/collections/wine-courses/products/wine-101">Wine 101 Certificate</a> at WineFolly.com. Cheers to new discoveries!</p>


Master of Wine Tries Non-Alcoholic Wine

Vittoria

Frappato

A rare and exclusive grape variety cultivated on only a few hectares, it is best expressed in the red sands of Vittoria, not far from the sea. An aromatic and pleasant red wine as few others, a perfect synthesis between tradition and innovation.

'It is a new way of thinking about the journey through Sicily; after Menfi, Vittoria, then Noto, then Etna, then Milazzo. Not a random route, but one strongly linked to the variety of countryside, to the winds, to the character of the people and thus of their wine…’ Diego Planeta

Planeta’s story is one of courage and hard work, of innovation and tradition. 
The company and the family share their values, both with an eye to the future and with their feet firmly on the ground.
Courage and innovation since the 1990’s, due to several of that generation of the family then in their twenties led by Alessio Planeta and under the protective care of the founder Diego Planeta, who initiated a completely new project, placing wine in the centre of the family’s farming activities.

After establishing the first winery at Ulmo in 1994 the ‘Viaggio in Sicilia’ took off, in other words, the search for the best known areas of the island in order to create independent wineries and produce what would be considered the best wines in each area, working with indigenous vines while continuing to experiment with international varieties.  
These last were developed particularly at Menfi, the working centre of the company, where the number of vines and wineries always continued to increase.
The next stage of the journey took place at Vittoria in 1997, where the only Sicilian DOCG, Cerasuolo di Vittoria, then existed, initially with vineyards and followed up with the purchase of the Dorilli estate. Next Noto in 1998 with the acquisition of Buonivini and with the specific intention of achieving the excellence of Nero d’Avola within its region of origin. Then Etna with the acquisition of the first 12 hectares of land at Sciaranuova on the northern slopes of the volcano in 2008, and the gradual purchase of more land bringing the total area to 40 hectares, devoted to Nerello Mascalese and Carricante, with small trial areas of Pinot Noir and Riesling.

This wonderful journey has for the moment finished at Capo Milazzo, and the tiny winery of Baronia, where since 2011 the focus has been on the DOC Mamertino and various antique indigenous varieties, particularly Nocera.

All this began from that first venture at Ulmo, the estate acquired by the family through marriage in 1694, 17 generations ago, and since then always cultivated with vines and olives; an authentic family tradition.

Now exists their obligation; the values which have always directed the company are tradition, research, the work ethic and respect for the land; to contribute to the progress of the community where they operate; to safeguard the beauty and environmental integrity of those places.  This last element is particularly loaded with meaning due to the particular beauty of the areas where the vineyards and wineries are sited.  Ulmo, Dispensa, Dorilli, Buonivini, Sciaranuova and La Baronia are unforgettable places, emphasising the saying that good wines are made in beautiful places.
Today there are overall 395 hectares and 7 wineries in five different areas.  Each winery has its leading wine-maker, each one is wholly part of its territory on which it is  modelled.

Four of the five wineries produce exclusively grapes and wines certified as organic;
Planeta has subscribed to SOStain’s protocol of sustainability since its inception, a further guarantee of their attention to the environment and to the land.  It is sufficient to visit any one of the wineries to understand to what extent the environment, the countryside and the culture are fundamental values of the company.
 


Planeta is not solely concerned with wine.  In the flora and fauna oasis of Capparrina (Menfi), owned by the family since the 19th century, 148 hectares of olive grove have been planted since 1998.  The olives – Nocellara del Belice, Biancolilla and Cerasuola – are processed as soon as harvested at the olive press in the centre of the estate; the result is an IGP extra-virgin olive oil which has been awarded various national and international awards.

Finally Planeta has devoted increasing investment and resources, under the guidance of Francesca Planeta, to the development of property activities and particularly to high-profile hospitality.  This began with La Foresteria, the Menfi wine resort established in 2009 and inscribed in the Ecoluxury list, to be followed with Palazzo Planeta in Palermo and Le Case Sparse at Noto.
In addition three of the estates – Ulmo, Buonivini and Sciaranuova – have in their turn become centres of hospitality linked to wine tourism (tastings, events, experiences, wine sales) and fully represent the synthesis of Planeta’s activities and their vision.


Sicily's Rarest Red is a Ringer for Pinot Noir

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