Grape Variety
Frappato
"frah-PAH-toh"
Wine Styles
Sparkling
Light White
Full White
Aromatic
Rosé
Light Red
Medium Red
Full Red
DessertAbout Frappato
Origin
Sicily, Italy
History
Frappato is a red Italian wine grape variety planted primarily in Sicily. As a varietal, Frappato produces light-bodied wines with a distinct grapey aroma. It is most commonly seen as a component of Sicily's only DOCG wine, Cerasuolo di Vittoria, which consists of 30-50% Frappato and 50-70% Nero d'Avola.
Appearance
Thin-skinned, delicate berries forming compact clusters, making them somewhat susceptible to rot.
Growing Traits
Frappato is a fussy and very 'specific' grape variety, requiring dry and warm conditions that come easily to growers in Sicily. It prefers sandy/calcareous soils with good drainage and is not prone to fungal diseases. However, the central issue with Frappato is yield; even if the climate and soils are to its liking, the grape will never produce massive bunches laden with ripe berries.
Wine Characteristics
Body
1/5
Sweetness
1/5
Tannin
1/5
Acidity
3/5
Alcohol
3/5
Light-bodied with a delicate and aromatic profile, emphasizing its fresh red fruit flavors and floral notes. Typically dry, focusing on its natural fruitiness with minimal residual sugar. Low tannin levels, resulting in a smooth and approachable palate. Medium acidity, providing a balanced and refreshing character suitable for various wine styles. Moderate alcohol content, typically ranging between 11.5% and 13.5%, ensuring balance and drinkability.
Taste Profile
Dried Strawberry
Pomegranate
White Pepper
Tobacco
Clove
Frappato wines are characterized by flavors of dried strawberry, pomegranate, white pepper, tobacco, and clove. The medium acidity provides a balanced and refreshing finish, making it a delightful choice for those seeking a light and aromatic red wine.
Food Pairing
Frappato's light body and fresh red fruit flavors make it an excellent match for roasted red pepper and sun-dried tomato dishes. Additionally, it pairs well with fall harvest foods like roast turkey and cranberry sauce.
Growing Regions
Italy
Sicily (particularly in the provinces of Siracusa and Ragusa)
Notable Wines & Producers
Cerasuolo di Vittoria
COS
Planeta
Arianna Occhipinti
Frappato Terre Siciliane IGT
Azienda Agricola COS
Donnafugata
Valle dell'Acate
Frappato FAQ
Common questions about this grape variety
What is the origin of Frappato?
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Sicily, Italy
Is Frappato wine full bodied?
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Frappato has a body level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Frappato is Light bodied.
Is Frappato wine dry or sweet?
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Frappato has a dryness level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Frappato is Dry.
Where is Frappato wine from?
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Sicily, Italy
Where is Frappato grown?
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Frappato is grown in Italy (Sicily (particularly in the provinces of Siracusa and Ragusa)).
What is Frappato like?
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Frappato wines are characterized by flavors of dried strawberry, pomegranate, white pepper, tobacco, and clove. The medium acidity provides a balanced and refreshing finish, making it a delightful choice for those seeking a light and aromatic red wine.
What does Frappato pair with?
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Frappato's light body and fresh red fruit flavors make it an excellent match for roasted red pepper and sun-dried tomato dishes. Additionally, it pairs well with fall harvest foods like roast turkey and cranberry sauce.
What does Frappato taste like?
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Frappato wines are characterized by flavors of dried strawberry, pomegranate, white pepper, tobacco, and clove. The medium acidity provides a balanced and refreshing finish, making it a delightful choice for those seeking a light and aromatic red wine.
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