The first manifestation of Tami came in the form of a quirky retail store in Siracusa founded by Arianna Occhipinti and longtime friend Francesco. Combining Francesco's background in design and architecture with Arianna's desire to open a wine shop, the store carries books, gadgets, knick knacks and of course many choice bottles!
In 2009, Tami also became a wine label. Arianna explains:
"The Tami project was an idea that came to me a few years ago, and that was to prove that it's possible to make good, simple, natural wine in Sicily. Tami is something I've started with some friends who own vineyards in Contrada, a district close to mine. Three years ago, we agreed we would convert their vineyards to organic viticulture. In 2009, we made the first "all grape" vinification. The goal was to take good grapes and make a simple, every day wine. There is a white, and two reds.
The vineyards are about 10 years old. The wine is made with a short maceration (1 week) and then six months in stainless steel. We do filter it because it's very young. A big part of this project is also to give younger people an opportunity to try something simple but delicious, something that can introduce them to the pleasures of wine."
VdT "Grillo"
Grape: Grillo
Age of Vines: 10+
Vinification: Direct press, then fermented and aged in stainless steel for 6 months.
VdT "Nero D'Avola"
Grape: Nero D'Avola
Age of Vines: 10+
Vinification: One week maceration on skins. Fermented and aged in stainless steel for 6 months.
VdT "Frappato"
Grape: Frappato
Age of Vines: 10+
Vinification: One week maceration on skins. Fermented and aged in stainless steel for 6 months.