The 2020 Babo Nero d’Avola DOC is a vibrant and modern Sicilian red crafted by Australian winemaker Justin Bubb, who created the Babo range to showcase classic Italian varieties with freshness, drinkability and regional authenticity. Sourced from vineyards surrounding Lake Arancio near Sambuca di Sicilia, the wine benefits from cooler north-facing sites, limestone-rich soils and moderating sea breezes that help preserve freshness and aromatic complexity. Rather than the heavy, high-alcohol style often associated with Nero d’Avola, this wine is made to highlight brightness, spice and elegance while retaining the grape’s generous Mediterranean character.
The nose reveals dark plum, blackberry and morello cherry layered with aniseed, liquorice, Mediterranean herbs and cinnamon spice. On the palate, it is medium-bodied and beautifully balanced with juicy black fruit, vibrant acidity and soft, velvety tannins. Layers of dark cherry, blueberry, tobacco, earthy spice and subtle dark chocolate unfold with freshness and energy, finishing smooth, savoury and gently spicy with excellent drinkability and classic Sicilian warmth. The wine spent around 10 months in large-format French oak, adding texture and complexity without overpowering the fruit.
Ben’s Recommendation:
The 2020 Babo Nero d’Avola is a stylish and approachable Sicilian red — juicy, savoury and packed with dark fruit, herbs and spice. A fantastic introduction to Nero d’Avola for drinkers who enjoy Shiraz, Montepulciano or Southern Italian reds but want something fresher and more food-friendly. Perfect with lamb skewers, wood-fired pizza, pasta dishes, eggplant parmigiana, grilled sausages or aged hard cheeses. Enjoy now for its vibrant fruit and freshness or over the next 3–5 years.
