Donnafugata Tancredi Dolce & Gabbana

Donnafugata Tancredi Dolce & Gabbana is a remarkable Sicilian masterpiece that unites world-class winemaking with iconic Italian design. Inspired by the character Tancredi from The Leopard, this prestigious red embodies the meeting of tradition and innovation. Rich, complex and beautifully age-worthy, it is one of Sicily’s most celebrated luxury wines and a rare find in New Zealand.

Tasting Notes & Experience

Deep ruby red with brilliant garnet reflections, Tancredi opens with an intense bouquet of wild blackberry, ripe plum and dark cherry layered with sweet tobacco, liquorice and dark cocoa. The palate is full-bodied and sumptuous, delivering concentrated black fruits, warm spice and subtle balsamic complexity. Silky, tightly woven tannins are balanced by vibrant Mediterranean acidity, leading to a long, elegant finish marked by mineral freshness, savoury depth and exceptional persistence.

Key Details

• Winery: Donnafugata
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon, Nero d’Avola, Tannat
• Region: Sicily, Italy
• Vintage: 2018
• ABV: 14%
• Volume: 750ml
• Other: Gluten-free, Vegan-friendly, Sustainable winegrowing

Craftsmanship & Story

Founded in 1983 by Giacomo and Gabriella Rallo, Donnafugata has become one of Italy’s most admired wineries, drawing on more than 170 years of family winemaking heritage. Tancredi was first created in 1990 as a revolutionary blend of native Nero d’Avola and international Cabernet Sauvignon, helping redefine modern Sicilian fine wine. Today, the estate remains family-owned and continues to craft wines that capture the extraordinary diversity of Sicily’s landscapes, climates and traditions.

Special Features

Produced from vineyards around Contessa Entellina in south-western Sicily, Tancredi benefits from clay-limestone soils, Mediterranean sunshine and dramatic day-to-night temperature shifts that preserve freshness and aromatic complexity. The blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Nero d’Avola and a touch of Tannat matures for 12 months in oak before spending at least three years ageing in bottle prior to release. Exclusive Dolce & Gabbana artwork transforms every bottle into a collector-worthy statement piece, celebrating Sicily’s culture, history and artistry.

Recognition & Accolades

Tancredi has earned widespread international acclaim, consistently recognised for its elegance, complexity and distinctive Sicilian identity.

• 93/100 Points – Wine Enthusiast (2021 vintage)
• 93/100 Points – Falstaff (2021 vintage)
• 94+/100 Points – Vinous Media (2020 vintage)
• 94/100 Points – Wine Enthusiast (2020 vintage)
• 93/100 Points – James Suckling (2020 vintage)
• 95/100 Points – Natalie MacLean (2020 vintage)
• 93+/100 Points – Vinous Media (2019 vintage)
• 93/100 Points – Robert Parker's Wine Advocate (2019 vintage)
• 92/100 Points – James Suckling (2019 vintage)
• Gold – Concours d'Vin (2019 vintage)
• 93/100 Points – James Suckling (2018 vintage)
• 92/100 Points – Raffaele Vecchione, WinesCritic (2018 vintage)
• 91/100 Points – Vinous Media (2018 vintage)

These accolades reinforce Tancredi’s reputation as one of Sicily’s most prestigious and internationally admired luxury red wines.

Food Pairings

Tancredi’s commanding structure and velvety texture make it a superb companion to slow-roasted lamb, prime ribeye steak and rich game dishes. Its vibrant acidity effortlessly balances hearty flavours, while notes of dark fruit, tobacco and spice complement wild boar ragù, duck breast with cherry reduction and traditional Sicilian cuisine. For a memorable finale, pair with mature Pecorino, aged Gouda or other hard cheeses, allowing the wine’s layers of cocoa, balsamic herbs and sweet tobacco to shine.

Perfect for Gifting or Cellaring

Rare in New Zealand and presented in one of the wine world’s most iconic designer bottles, Donnafugata Tancredi Dolce & Gabbana makes an unforgettable luxury gift. Equally suited to collectors, fine wine enthusiasts and special celebrations, it offers both immediate enjoyment and excellent cellaring potential.

Fast, Secure NZ-Wide Delivery

Order online for fast NZ delivery. Lovingly packed with a selection of stylish packaging and a personal message option to complete the perfect gift.