Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
The vineyard lies in Contrada Moganazzi in the township of Castiglione di Sicilia. Its two hectares occupy Mount Etna’s northern slope at 700–750 metres. Deep, soft and dark volcanic soil contains black pumice and abundant volcanic ash. The Nerello Mascalese vines are 70–80 years old, trained as alberello and modified alberello, and yield approximately 5 tonnes per hectare.
Moganazzi, together with Guardiola and closely followed by Santo Spirito, has traditionally been regarded as one of Castiglione’s leading terroirs. Marco de Grazia acquired a very small available plot there in 2007 and dedicated the resulting limited wine to a charitable project connected with Florence’s Meyer pediatric hospital.
Grapes
100% Nerello Mascalese.
Vinification
Harvest takes place during the second ten-day period of October. Alcoholic fermentation is temperature controlled at 28–30 °C, followed by spontaneous malolactic fermentation.
Ageing
The wine matures for 14 months in French oak barriques and tonneaux, followed by one month in steel before bottling.
Technical data
Etna Rosso D.O.C. Alcohol is 14.5%. Annual production is approximately 600 bottles in 750 ml format. The first vintage was released in 2008.
Tasting profile
Intense ruby in colour. The complex, full-bodied bouquet combines black fruit with abundant floral notes. The palate is broad and velvety, with spice and a creamy, persistent finish.
Serving and pairing
Serve at 18–20 °C with meat or aged cheeses.
Label / history
Le Vigne di Eli is dedicated to Marco de Grazia’s daughter Elena, who designs its labels. Part of the proceeds supports the Meyer Pediatric Foundation Hospital in Florence.
