Palazzo del Mare ("the palace by the sea") makes wines of authentic charm and character - wines you just want to drink. This Nero d'Avola is medium-weight with soft tannins and an abundance of dark, ripe fruit that just washes across palate. A gentle line of acidity weaves its way through the wine and makes it eminently refreshing. A near-perfect wine with Friday night pizza.

Origin: The island of Sicily, Italy. Mainly Grown In: Sicily and southern Italy, and also in the Riverland in South Australia. Key Facts: Nero d'Avola, which translates to "The Black (Grape) of Avola", comes originally from the area around the city of Avola in the south-east of Sicily. In modern times it has spread its wings and now comfortably calls Australia and some parts of California home. It is the most planted grape in Sicily, and provides the backbone for some of this islands best wines. It produces fleshy, black-fruited wines with zippy acidity and a moderate but noticeable backbone of tannin, to sharpen things up. There's no lack of character here - it is floral, fruit driven but whip sharp. A great drink. Fun Facts: Nero d'Avola is Italian, but was built to be grown in Australia - it loves long hot summers!