Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
San Lorenzo comes from eight hectares in the eponymous contrada in Randazzo, at the northwestern boundary of the Etna DOC and in its coldest sector. The northern-slope vineyards occupy high elevations; the published figures vary between 700–850 metres, a separate reference to 750 metres, and 800–900 metres in the technical sheet.
The terroir developed from lava flows and volcaniclastic deposits associated with the effusive and explosive activity of the Ellittico volcano approximately 60,000–15,000 years ago. Although young in geological terms, this is the oldest exposed surface suitable for vines within the appellation because later lava flows buried most earlier ground. Bocca d’Orzo, Calderara and San Lorenzo are identified as the three northern contrade with pure Ellittico terroir, uncompromised by alluvial deposits from the Alcantara River.
The soil is volcanic and especially rich in ash and black pumice; the technical description gives an approximately equal balance of stones and ash. Vine ages are published as 50–100 years and 70–100 years. Training is alberello and modified alberello.
Grapes
100% Nerello Mascalese.
Vinification
The grapes are harvested during the last ten days of October. Alcoholic fermentation takes place at a controlled 28–30°C, followed by spontaneous malolactic fermentation.
Ageing
The wine ages for 14 months in French-oak barriques and tonneaux, then spends one month in steel before bottling.
Technical data
Alcohol is 14.5%. The technical sheet gives a yield of 5 tonnes per hectare and annual production of 8,000 bottles of 750 ml; the vineyard page instead reports 6 tonnes per hectare and 6,000 bottles.
Tasting profile
The colour ranges from ruby to deep ruby. The penetrating, lively bouquet combines ripe fruit and spice. The palate is structured, full and complex, supported by smooth tannins. Its cold climate and ash-rich terrain give a combination of vigour, generosity and tension.
Serving and pairing
Serve at 18–20°C with meat or aged cheese.
Label / history
The first released vintage was 2015.
