Nocera

Nocera is an ancient red grape variety native to northeastern Sicily, particularly the province of Messina, where it has been cultivated for centuries. Often likened to the Nerello family of grapes - especially Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio - Nocera shares some visual and structural similarities but has a unique identity and history of its own.

Historical sources and traditions suggest that Nocera may have been one of the key varieties used in producing the famous Mamertinum and Zancle wines of antiquity, both celebrated by the ancient Romans. Its historical importance and noble reputation were once reflected in its widespread cultivation across Sicily. Today, however, the grape has become increasingly rare, with its presence reduced to a few scattered hectares, mostly concentrated in the vineyards of Messina. A few old vines still survive, offering a direct link to Sicily’s viticultural past.

Nocera has been largely overshadowed in recent decades by more commercially prominent varieties, such as Nerello Mascalese, Nerello Cappuccio, and international grapes. Nevertheless, it remains a critical component in the Faro DOC, one of Sicily’s most historic and elegant red wine appellations, where it is blended with Nerello Mascalese and Cappuccio to add structure, acidity, and aromatic depth.

Though native to Sicily, Nocera has also found success outside the island. It was introduced into Calabria, where it adapted well to the local conditions, and in the mid-20th century, it even made its way to France. In Provence and Beaujolais, it was grown under the names Suquet and Barbe du Sultan, though it has since faded from French vineyards.

Ampelographically, Nocera is recognised by its medium-sized, ellipsoidal black berries, which are covered in a thick, bluish-black skin. The grape clusters are medium in size, typically cylindrical-conical in shape, and tend to be loosely packed or moderately compact. The leaves are medium-sized and entire, with a robust structure suited to Sicily’s hot and windy climate. The vine has good vigour and is known for its ability to maintain high levels of acidity, even in warm growing conditions.

Wines made from Nocera are typically a deep ruby red with violet reflections. On the nose, they reveal a complex bouquet of dark fruit, violets, and subtle herbal or spicy notes. On the palate, Nocera offers a full-bodied, well-structured wine with vibrant acidity, good alcohol levels, and firm tannins. These attributes give it excellent potential for blending and aging, while also making it a strong candidate for varietal vinification, something more winemakers are beginning to explore.