Italian red is well-balanced, nicely priced

The Specialty Wine Import Co. is an Ohio-based wine importer headed by Claudio Salvador, winemaker and a principal in Fireland’s Winery. Claudio immigrated to America some years ago, eschewing winery jobs in California for this relatively large Ohio operation.

Formerly only an employee but now an owner, he has smartly used his relationships with many of his past Italian winemaking brethren to begin the import company.

One of the wines the company is importing is the 2011 Marchese Montefusco Nero D’Avola, and this delightful red from Sicily is an incredible bargain. Visually, a beautiful ruby red color is enhanced by garnet reflections, and it seems to show off almost a bit of blueness. The impact that this wine has on the nose is intense with sensations of tobacco, spice and mineral notes. On the palate this wine is well-balanced with the flavors of blackberry and cherry. The Grape, Nero D’Avola, is indigenous to Sicily, and can make value-priced wines as well as some more expensive offerings.

Food choices range from grilled meats to pasta to lamb, and most aromatic cheeses. That noted, this wine affirms Italy’s ability to give a lot for a little, as it sells for $7 the bottle. If your place does not carry it, have the manager call Heidelberg Distributing.

Roger Gentile is the owner of Gentile’s, the Wine Sellers – www.gentiles.com – and the author of two books on wine.