Perricone is a rare black grape variety grown in western Sicily. Often used as a blending variety with its more prestigious Sicilian partner Nero d’Avola, producing wines with a rich texture, high alcohol and good acidity. On its own Perricone is similar to Barbera; ripe red cherry fruits, high acidity and a herbaceous note, although Perricone has much higher tannins which need time to soften.