Grape Variety
Perricone
“Sicily's Forgotten Red”
Red grape
Perricone is a red wine grape grown in Western Sicily, Monreale, Palermo — known as “Sicily's Forgotten Blending Partner”.
Perricone at a glance
| Color | Red |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Pignatello |
| Signature flavors | Dark Cherry, Spice, Herbs, Earth, Tannins, Rustic |
| Classic pairings | Sicilian meat dishes, Grilled lamb, Aged cheeses, Pasta alla Norma |
| Where it grows | Western Sicily, Monreale, Palermo |
The Story
Perricone was once Sicily's most planted red. Phylloxera nearly killed it. Now a handful of producers are bringing it back.
Insider Story
At its low point, under 100 hectares remained.
Pioneers proved Perricone makes serious, age-worthy red wine.
Technical Deep Dive
Deep-colored reds with firm tannins and distinctive savory character.
Flavor profile: dark cherry, black olive, herbs, pepper.
Industry Secrets
Perricone blends well with Nero d'Avola.
The grape needs careful winemaking.
Collector’s Corner
Investment grade D- Auction records
- No auction market
- Blue-chip producers
- ["Ferrandes"]
- Value picks
- Sicilian Perricone ($15-25)
- Price trend
- Stable.
- Collector’s tip
- Buy for exploration.
Updated March 2026
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