Zisola Contrada 2022

The latest vintage of this fantastic Sicilian Cru is now available. This is only the second release of the Zisola Contrada. The previous vintage was already a success and the 2022 is even better. Crisp, vibrant and sapid with a mineral finish, this is simply excellent.

Zisola’s Story

About 20 years ago, the Mazzei family started an ambitious winemaking project at Zisola in Sicily: enhancing the local grape varietals to levels unprecedented in the region. Over the year, they have gained a deep knowledge of the microclimate, available resources, soil characteristics and biological complexity of each parcel. They saw the potential of Catarratto, a grape variety long overlooked, and decided to experiment.

They released their first vintage of Zisola Contrada last year and proved that when receiving the care it deserves, Catarratto can produce crisp, aromatic and textured whites with complex flavours.

My family identified the potential of Zisola - a land rich with history, culture, and charm - and started an ambitious winemaking project in 2003. Following sustainable practices and working with the greatest respect for the environment, we aim to bring out the finest qualities of the grapes we grow. We are also in the process of converting our vineyards into organic farming.
Giovanni Mazzei, 25th Generation of the Mazzei family and founder of Petersham Cellar

Vineyard & Winemaking

Zisola’s location is slightly elevated, so the site is cooler than other part of the island. The vines are planted on calcareous and mineral soils and benefit from mild winters and hot, dry summers which are alleviated by breezes from the Ionian Sea.

In a search to concentrate the flavours, the vines are bush trained to keep the yields low. Once harvested, all by hand, half of the grapes are kept in contact with the skins in "cocciopesto" amphora for three months to add texture to the wine. The other half is aged on the lees to add complexity.