Frappato is a red grape variety found predominantly on the eastern side of Sicily. It generally produces light, fruity wines with distinctive notes of strawberry and raspberry. For many years it was considered a poor quality grape for its lack of body, yet in recent years quality focussed producers such as Ariana Occhipinti and Azienda COS have produced plenty of outstanding wines that cast Frappato in a new light. There is no doubt that great wines can be made with the variety and there should be more effort made to release mono-varietal expressions instead of using it as a blending partner for Nero d'Avola. The best wines come from vines planted around the town of Vittoria in south east Sicily and combine notes of strawberry, raspberry and sour cherry with plenty of refreshing acidity. Sometimes the wines will stand a small amount of wood ageing but in my opinion are best when left to demonstrate the Frappato's natural vibrant and fruity character.
