About this wine

Vineyard and terroir

The fruit comes from the lower, or sottana, part of contrada Feudo di Mezzo in Passopisciaro, within the comune of Castiglione di Sicilia on Etna’s northern side. This extensive contrada is divided conceptually between the lower sector and the upper soprana, also known as Porcaria. The north-facing vineyard lies at 580 m a.s.l.; its relatively deep soil can present difficulties in humid years, although the well-ventilated position assists ripening. The vines average more than 40 years of age.

Grapes

100% Nerello Mascalese.

Vinification

The grapes are destemmed and lightly crushed. Fermentation is initiated with a pied-de-cuve and relies exclusively on indigenous yeasts, with approximately 50 days of skin contact. The wine is neither fined nor clarified through fining. Before bottling, it is filtered through 5-micron cartridges. Depending on grape quality and wine stability, sulphur may or may not be added; total values can range from 15 to 50 mg/L.

Ageing

Maturation lasts 18 months in neutral epoxy tanks holding 1,500–2,500 L, followed by a further 18 months in bottle.

Technical data

The wine may be released as Etna Rosso DOP or IGP Terre Siciliane Nerello Mascalese. Annual production is approximately 2,500 bottles. It is bottled in dark Burgundy glass in 750 mL, 1,500 mL and 3,000 mL formats. The first vintage was 2014.

Tasting profile

Despite its relatively low position on the valley floor, the site produces unusually elegant wine. The profile combines Burgundian-style roundness and finesse, including in hot vintages.