About this wine
Vineyard and terroir
The Feudo di Mezzo vineyard lies at Castiglione di Sicilia (CT), in the heart of Etna’s wine-growing area, at 610 metres above sea level. The site is described as perfectly positioned and exposed, although no compass orientation is specified. Its black volcanic ground contains lava sands, is rich in minerals and has abundant large structural material. Woodland and more recent lava flows surround the vineyard.
The vines are planted at 5,050 plants per hectare and trained on espaliers with spur-pruned cordons. The recorded yield is 70 quintals per hectare. Cultivation follows organic-agriculture criteria and SOStain® protocols. Wild ground cover increases organic matter and supports soil microfauna. Vine health is managed with small quantities of sulphur and copper, while useful insects, mating disruption, zeolite, kaolin and plant extracts are employed against pests. The wine carries SOStain® certification, with the technical designation “10.1 B”.
Grapes
88% Nerello Mascalese and 12% Nerello Cappuccio for the 2024 vintage.
Vinification
For the 2024 vintage, Nerello Cappuccio was harvested on 19–20 September and Nerello Mascalese on 3–8 October. The grapes were gathered in 15–17 kg crates, chilled to approximately 10°C and selected by hand. Following destemming, fermentation proceeded at temperatures up to 24°C in wooden vats and stainless-steel tanks.
Nerello Mascalese remained in contact with the skins for 16–18 days; Nerello Cappuccio macerated for approximately 20 days. The fermenting wine received two manual pressings or punch-downs each day and was subsequently drawn off with the aid of a vertical press.
Ageing
Maturation lasted 6–8 months in wooden and stainless-steel tanks. The first bottling of the 2024 vintage took place in July 2025.
Technical data
The 2024 wine has 13.5% alcohol by volume, total acidity of 5.8 g/L and a pH of 3.43. It is offered in a 750 ml bottle weighing 400 g. Listed closure options are a single-piece natural cork, DIAM® or Nomacorc®.
Tasting profile
The 2024 opens with lively, fruit-led aromas, fresher and more primary than its mature, autumnal Etna nuances. Pigmented citrus and ripe Ferrovia cherry are joined by an unusual rice-like scent, wild-rose florality and a light spicy accent associated with Nerello Cappuccio. The palate is full, complete, fresh and persistent.
The broader profile combines vanilla, sour cherry and wild strawberry with a clean floral note. It is fleshy and smooth in the mouth, with expressive fruit developing into undergrowth, myrtle and oriental spices. Savoury impressions of iron, rhubarb and black pepper add complexity.
Serving and pairing
Pair with Italian pasta dishes, including Sicilian and Roman preparations, as well as meats, roasts, cheeses and cured meats. The wine can be enjoyed immediately or cellared for 6–7 years.
Vintage notes
Etna’s 2024 winter and spring were mild. Light, evenly distributed rainfall supported the vines through to harvest. Production was 15% above the average, while the season was characterised as particularly successful in both its development and final result.
Label / history
First produced in 2012, the wine takes its name from the Feudo di Mezzo vineyard and winery on Etna.