Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
The fruit comes from the Feudo di Mezzo vineyard at Castiglione di Sicilia, in the heart of the Etna winegrowing area. The site lies at 610 m above sea level. Its black volcanic sands are particularly rich in minerals and contain abundant large elements; woodland and more recent lava flows surround the vineyard.
The vines are planted at 5,050 plants per hectare and trained to espalier with spurred-cordon pruning. The stated yield is 70 quintals per hectare, equivalent to 7 tonnes per hectare.
Cultivation follows organic-agriculture criteria and SOStain® protocols. Wild ground cover builds organic matter and supports soil microfauna. Vine health is managed with small quantities of sulphur and copper, beneficial insects, mating disruption and natural treatments including zeolite, kaolin and plant extracts.
Grapes
Latest published vintage (2024): 88% Nerello Mascalese and 12% Nerello Cappuccio.
Vinification
For the 2024 vintage, Nerello Cappuccio was harvested on 19–20 September and Nerello Mascalese on 3–8 October. The grapes were collected in 15–17 kg crates, refrigerated to approximately 10°C and selected by hand.
After destemming, fermentation proceeded at temperatures up to 24°C in wooden vats and stainless-steel tanks. Nerello Mascalese remained on its skins for 16–18 days, while Nerello Cappuccio macerated for approximately 20 days. The fermenting must received two manual pump-overs or punch-downs each day. Drawing off was followed by pressing in a vertical press.
Ageing
The wine matures for 6–8 months in wooden and stainless-steel tanks. The first bottling of the 2024 vintage was scheduled for July 2025.
Technical data
The 2024 wine has 13.5% alcohol, total acidity of 5.8 g/L and pH 3.43. It is bottled in a 0.75 L format in a 400 g bottle, using either a single-piece natural cork, DIAM® or Nomacorc® closure.
Tasting profile
The 2024 profile is led by lively, fresh fruit rather than the more mature autumnal nuances associated with Etna. Aromas evoke pigmented citrus, ripe Ferrovia cherry, a subtle rice-like note, wild roses and a light spiciness contributed by Nerello Cappuccio. The palate is full, complete, fresh and persistent.
The broader profile combines vanilla, sour cherry, wild strawberry and clean floral notes. It is fleshy and smooth in the mouth, with expressive fruit followed by undergrowth, myrtle and oriental spices. Savoury impressions of iron, rhubarb and black pepper emerge through the finish.
Serving and pairing
Pair with Italian pasta dishes—including Sicilian and Roman preparations—meats, roasts, cheeses and cold cuts. It may be enjoyed young or cellared for 6–7 years.
Vintage notes
The 2024 growing season began with a mild winter and spring. Light, well-distributed rainfall supported the vines through to harvest. Production was 15% above the average.
Label / history
Etna Rosso Contrada Feudo di Mezzo was first produced in 2012 at the Feudo di Mezzo winery.
