The S.C.Pannell Nero Diavola is a medium-bodied, highly vibrant, and texturally captivating alternative red wine grown in the McLaren Vale region. By playfully adopting the name "Diavola" (the devilish one), the wine pays homage to its classic Sicilian origins while delivering a distinctly Australian expression that balances intense, juicy fruit with a complex, structural framework. It represents a masterful shift away from traditional, heavy McLaren Vale styles toward a more energetic, savory, and food-friendly style of winemaking.
- Aromas: The nose is bright and fragrant, bursting with ripe dark cherry, plum, and boysenberry, alongside subtle hints of liquorice, dried Italian herbs, and warm earth.
- Palate: The palate is juicy and fresh with dark fruit flavours, balanced by a crunchy, energetic mineral acidity and framed by deceptively smooth, chalky tannins that lead to a dry, savoury finish.
- Style: This is a fresh, modern take on a classic Sicilian variety that pairs perfumed fruit with an Old World savoury texture, playfully named "Diavola" for its sneaky, structural tannin kick.
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Winemaking: Sourced entirely from the Oliver's Road vineyard, the fruit is handled with minimal intervention to protect its bright varietal character and natural, crisp acidity.
- Food Pairing: It is an ideal match for casual Italian food like wood-fired pizza, pasta in tomato sugo, chargrilled lamb chops, or a simple antipasto platter.
This is just a super fun, delicious bottle to crack open when you want something a bit different but totally reliable. Steve Pannell has completely nailed the brief here, giving us a sun-loving Sicilian grape that feels right at home in McLaren Vale. It’s packed with juicy dark berries, but it doesn't get bogged down because that bright, crunchy acidity keeps everything moving.