Poggio Anima Asmodeus Nero d’Avola DOC 2024 from Poggio Anima in Sicily is a dark, sultry red – all rich fruit, spice and Mediterranean warmth, offering a superbly approachable take on Nero d’Avola. Poggio Anima Asmodeus Nero d’Avola 2024 captures the house style beautifully, with depth, spice and a smooth, modern feel.

On the nose you’ll find ripe plum, black cherry and candied red berries, layered with black pepper, leather, garrigue herbs and a touch of tobacco and licorice. The palate is medium to fuller‑bodied, fleshy and smooth, with bright acidity, fine yet gripping tannins and a lingering finish that balances fruit sweetness, spice and savoury earth.

Food‑wise, it’s a natural with beef, lamb, game and rich pasta – think ragù, meatballs, grilled sausages or slow‑cooked shoulder. It also sings with pizza, hard cheeses and hearty vegetarian dishes like baked eggplant or mushroom lasagne, making it a brilliant step sideways for Aussie Shiraz drinkers wanting something distinctly Sicilian.